Melanoma
If you have a suspicious mole I will happily see you in my clinic at short notice. Patients with melanoma usually present with a new brown or black lesion (approximately 70%), or a change in an existing mole. (approximately 30%). Melanoma occurs most commonly in sun exposed areas, but can also develop in other sites such as the finger-nails, eyes, or gastro-intestinal tract. Melanoma can spread to the lymph glands of the neck, axilla, or groin, and to distant organs such as the lungs, or brain.
Excision biopsy
Suspicious lesions are usually removed whole under local anaesthesia and are sent for histological analysis. The results are usually available within two weeks. Patients should attend clinic with a relative or friend to be informed of the results.