Red Swollen Suspicious Mole - Freaking Out - Melanoma?

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 Reply
  • So glad it turned out to be OK. Don't feel silly about it - without seeing the dermatologist you are not to know if it's serious or not. They prefer to see you asap as it's easier to treat early doors than if it's left too long. Thank you for updating us as it helps others to know that not every referral means it's bad news.

    Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

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