Melanoma is the least common but also the most dangerous type of skin cancer occurring on skin that has a high exposure to sunlight, however it can also occur in places that are covered.
Melanomas usually grow rapidly, from a lump, mole or mark on the skin. They enlarge horizontally as a flat stain, and within months spread, and grow upwards and form an easily-felt lump.
As the melanoma grows it usually becomes darker and sometimes almost black, however in rare conditions it becomes pale pink and grows. Melanomas tend to bleed often after minor injury such as rubbing with clothing or a towel. Itching is the final symptom of melanoma usually experienced around the exterior edge of the mole. In addition, this itchiness can be very frequent.
Large moles, often 6-10 mm or more in diameter, which have a mixture of colour, usually various shades of brown and irregular borders, are more likely to turn into melanoma. They are sometimes inherited and known as a dysplastic naevi, which means under the microscope there is evidence of abnormal cellular growth. Therefore, it is important to monitor these moles for any changes.
