Malignant Melanoma

Melanoma represents the least common form of skin cancer, accounting for approximately 5% of all cases. However, it is the most aggressive and has the potential to spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs—a condition known as metastasis.

The term “melanoma” is used to describe cancers originating from abnormal growth of melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for pigmentation in the upper skin layers.

Melanoma skin cancers need specialised medical attention and treatment. This underscores the importance of consulting a medical professional  if you notice a suspicious growth.

The early detection of melanoma is crucial for effective treatment and reducing the risk of its spread. When caught early, melanoma typically remains confined to the skin’s surface and can often be completely removed through excision, resulting in a low chance of recurrence or spread to other organs.

We would not generally remove a melanoma at Oxona Healthcare.  They need to be managed by a specialist team, which might include dermatologists, plastic surgeons and oncologists.  This includes multi disciplinary team meetings where every cancer diagnosis is reviewed regularly by a group of specialists.  The NHS is better geared up for this approach than some private providers.

Occasionally, a lesion which looks harmless is removed at our clinic, and turns out to be a melanoma.  If this happens we will immediately refer you to an NHS or private provider for further managements.

The initial indicators of melanoma typically involve the emergence of a new skin spot or alterations in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole. While these signs should prompt you to consult a healthcare professional, it’s also advisable to make regular self-examinations of your skin a routine practice, especially if you’re at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

You can use  mnemonic technique known as the ABCDE method when inspecting moles or marks: 

A – Asymmetry: Look for irregular shapes.

B – Border: Check for uneven or non-smooth edges.

C – Color: Examine pigmentation for unevenness or dark spots.

D – Diameter: Ensure that the spot is not larger than a pencil eraser.

E – Evolving or Elevation: Watch for changes in size, shape, or texture.

there is more information about detecting early melanomas on the following link:

How to perform a monthly skin check to spot early signs of melanomaa

The only definitive way to confirm whether a mole or mark is melanoma is to have it evaluated by a skin specialist as time is crucial for the effective treatment of any skin cancer, especially melanoma. At Oxona Healthcare, all our doctors are highly skilled at recognising melanoma. If you are worried about a lesion we can usually fit you into an appointment within a few days at most.

Additional symptoms may encompass:

• Sores that do not heal.
• Pigmentation, redness, or swelling that extends beyond the mole’s borders onto the surrounding skin.
• Itchiness, tenderness, or pain emanating from a mole.
• Alterations in texture, the presence of scales, oozing, or bleeding from an existing mole.

Given the diverse nature of these symptoms and the fact that not all melanomas originate from moles, it is essential to discuss any new or unusual skin growths with your doctor.

Many melanomas develop in skin areas exposed to sunlight’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, but they can also arise in areas typically covered by clothing