Changing moles and persistent skin marks

Overview

A new mark or a change in an existing mole is worth checking. Changes can include altered shape, colour or size, bleeding, crusting or persistent discomfort. Many skin marks are harmless, but their cause cannot be established from a description alone.

A concerning change may occur anywhere, including skin that receives little sun or beneath a nail. Comparing a lesion with photographs online is not a reliable way to decide whether it needs attention. Your observation that something has changed is itself useful information for a clinician.

By telephone

A telephone conversation can establish what prompted your concern and help identify the next assessment. Describe when you first noticed the mark, how it has changed and whether it is bleeding, itching or failing to settle. Mention relevant previous skin investigations and family history.

If you already have an appointment or referral, the discussion can help clarify its purpose and questions you want to ask. A referral for further assessment does not mean cancer has been diagnosed. It means that a closer examination or additional evidence is needed.

What cannot be done remotely

A telephone call cannot inspect a lesion or rule out skin cancer. An in-person clinician may use a magnifying instrument and decide whether a specialist assessment or tissue sample is needed. A spoken account cannot replace those steps when a lesion is suspicious.

Do not postpone assessment because a mark is small, painless or has sometimes looked less noticeable. Likewise, an earlier benign result applies to what was examined then. Explain any subsequent change and ask what follow-up is appropriate if the lesion remains unexplained.

What to prepare

• Describe the location, duration and specific changes you noticed.
• Mention bleeding, crusting, itching or a wound that does not heal.
• Have previous skin reports and referral information available.
• Note relevant personal or family history and your main questions.

Sources

• NHS: moles
• NHS: melanoma symptoms
• NHS: melanoma tests and next steps