Melenoma meaning

I just had a mole removed with surgery, everything was super slick lovely nhs staff…after the operation the operating nurse said in her experience the removed mole was 99% Melenoma…and it would go off to be analysed….I forgot to ask …can Melenoma be malignant Or benign ? Or does Melenoma mean Mallignant ? And it is down the what stage it is at ? 

  • Hello Mistermark and thanks for the post

    I am sorry to hear you are awaiting test results and appreciate this must be a worrying time for you.

    The mole as the nurse said will now be sent to histology to confirm exactly what it is. If melanoma is found then it is regarded as malignant (cancer in other words) however the stage of a melanoma mean different things. For instance stage 0 is known as melanoma in situ and only affects the top layer of skin that hasn't had the chance to go deeper, so in other words whilst it is still called cancer it is often regarded as pre cancer. There is more information about this here.

    Sit tight for now, unfortunately until the results are in and they are given to you there is no way of finding out what this is and what needs to happen next. Some people find keeping themselves busy and their thoughts and minds on other things can help.

    I really hope you know more soon and that everything works out okay for you.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  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.

    Best wishes,

    Naomi