Hi Binzy and thank you for your post.

I am sorry to hear about your situation. I can understand how unsettling this must be for you. 

It can be challenging to assess whether a mole is cancerous based solely on its appearance. Therefore, it’s essential to have any suspicious moles evaluated by a dermatologist. Your general practitioner may not be an expert in skin conditions, which is why they have referred you to a dermatologist for a more thorough evaluation. Your GP is following NHS guidelines and is sending you under the  28 day faster diagnosis rule.  It doesn’t necessarily mean that it is cancer.

Take comfort in that there was nothing suspicious on your photo.

You are right to check your skin for any changes that may occur.  As well as the ABCDE   rule which I expect you have read about, there is also the idea of looking for the odd one out, that is a mole that doesn't look like all the others. And the NHS website has a  mole assessment tool.

It's understandable to feel anxious during this time. We often recommend visiting the NHS Every Mind Matters  website or Anxiety UK  for tips on how to cope while you wait for more information.

I hope you know more soon and everything will be ok.

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.

Kind regards,

Tina