What should you know about ulcerated melanoma?

Ulceration means the skin covering a melanoma is no longer intact. It may look like an open sore, crust, bleeding area or moist break in a changing mole. The finding describes the tumour surface; it does not by itself show whether melanoma has spread.

A clinician usually examines the lesion and nearby lymph nodes, then removes or samples tissue so a pathologist can assess the melanoma. The report may help describe depth and other features that influence staging. Further assessment can include a sentinel lymph node biopsy or imaging when clinically appropriate.

Arrange an urgent dermatology or skin-cancer assessment for a new or changing ulcerated spot. Do not pick the crust, apply caustic home products or repeatedly cover it with adhesive. Keep the area clean, use a light dressing if it rubs against clothing, and note changes in size, colour, bleeding or pain.

Treatment is planned from the examination and pathology results. It may include surgical excision or other skin cancer surgery, with additional treatment such as immunotherapy considered for some stages. The specialist can explain whether a wider operation, lymph-node assessment or surveillance is appropriate.

Seek prompt medical care for an ulcerated or bleeding mole, especially when it is changing, enlarging, painful or not healing. Seek same-day help if bleeding does not settle with firm gentle pressure, or if the wound becomes increasingly red, swollen, hot or produces pus. New severe headache, weakness, confusion or seizures require emergency assessment because they can signal a serious problem unrelated to the skin surface.

Ask what the biopsy shows, whether the melanoma is ulcerated on pathology, what its stage is, and whether nearby lymph nodes need assessment. Ask how the wound should be dressed, which treatment is recommended, what symptoms should trigger a call, and how follow-up after cancer treatment will be organised.