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Red Swollen Suspicious Mole - Freaking Out - Melanoma?

ffauth
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44/m.

About 10 days ago I felt an odd itch on my back. I didn't think much of it. 4 days ago I felt some pain and looked in the mirror and one of my long time moles (about 5-6mm) was red, swollen, and itchy.

I went to urgent care. The doctor said it may be an infection but he didn't think it looked like melanoma but I should still see the derm.

I don't know how it could be infected. I do not touch it ever so I couldn't have scratched it.

My question is, if I'm already having a reaction is it likely melanoma? And would the reaction mean that it is further along? I've obviously googled and then I didn't sleep at all last night. I'm trying to get an appointment with my derm but they usually take a lot of time.

Any advice is appreciated.

Parents

  • Hello there, thanks for posting.

    As annie123 mentions it is always best to get any moles that have changed or have suddenly started to bleed and become itchy checked out. It doesn't mean the symptoms are caused by a melanoma, however it is always best to be safe. So you are doing the right thing getting it checked by a dermatologist. Moles can become infected for a number of reasons such as scratching, an irritant or from bacteria.

    Unfortunately until you see the dermatologist, no one can say what the chances are of this being a melanoma. This is hard because there is some uncertainty for you and it is causing you to worry. I know it is difficult but remember the information you are finding on the internet is general. It is not talking about your individual situation.

    I hope this helps. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care

    Jemma

Reply

  • Hello there, thanks for posting.

    As annie123 mentions it is always best to get any moles that have changed or have suddenly started to bleed and become itchy checked out. It doesn't mean the symptoms are caused by a melanoma, however it is always best to be safe. So you are doing the right thing getting it checked by a dermatologist. Moles can become infected for a number of reasons such as scratching, an irritant or from bacteria.

    Unfortunately until you see the dermatologist, no one can say what the chances are of this being a melanoma. This is hard because there is some uncertainty for you and it is causing you to worry. I know it is difficult but remember the information you are finding on the internet is general. It is not talking about your individual situation.

    I hope this helps. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care

    Jemma

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