What should you know about verrucous melanoma?

Melanoma is a cancer of pigment-producing cells. A verrucous form may look raised, thick, scaly, or uneven instead of resembling a classic dark mole. It can be brown, black, pink, red, or contain several colours, and some lesions are not strongly pigmented. Changes in size, shape, surface, colour, bleeding, or sensation are concerning features, but appearance alone cannot establish the diagnosis. A dermatologist may examine the lesion with dermoscopy and remove a representative sample for laboratory analysis.

Arrange prompt specialist assessment for a growth that persists, changes, bleeds, crusts, or returns after being treated as a wart. Do not freeze, shave, or apply wart medicines before diagnosis. If melanoma is confirmed, treatment planning depends on the biopsy findings and examination. Surgical Excision or Skin Cancer Surgery may remove the primary lesion; a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy may help assess nearby lymph nodes in selected cases. Some people need additional treatment such as Immunotherapy. A specialist will explain whether further staging or treatment is needed.

Seek an urgent dermatology appointment for a new or changing wart-like lesion, especially if it grows quickly, bleeds without clear injury, develops an ulcer, or becomes persistently painful. New lumps near the lesion, unexplained swelling, or neurological symptoms require prompt medical attention. Do not wait for a lesion to become dark; verrucous melanoma may be subtle in colour.

Ask what biopsy is recommended, whether the entire lesion should be removed, what the pathology report shows, and whether lymph-node assessment or staging is needed. Ask how to examine your skin and what follow-up schedule fits your diagnosis.