Fast track referral for mole on back. Has anyone had this?

I noticed a lump on my back whilst in the bath last night - thought it might be a spot, but on checking when I got out of the bath I saw it was raised dark brown almost black lump. 
 

I called the GP this morning and was seen first by an advanced practitioner in the morning and then asked back to be seen by a GP in the afternoon who specialises in dermatology.

They had a look by eye at first and said it could be dermatofibroma. They looked closer using a dermascooe and as it is pigmented and has a very darkened centre under the dermatascope they no longer suspect dermatofibroma. GP measured the lump as 7mm lesion on the lower back, raised, and smooth to touch.

I have now been referred as a 2week fast track referral for suspected skin cancer (in their words).

I am worried and wondered if anyone has any experience of this.

I am mixed white and black Caribbean and quite dark skinned. The GP said it's much rarer for people of colour to get skin cancer. I do not have a family history of skin cancer and do not spend lots of time in the sun (certainly don't have my top off exposing my back - and do use sun cream elsewhere). 

  • Hello Roygo

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently found a lump. You did exactly the right thing in seeing your GP and getting this checked. 

    We know that for many people waiting for appointments and tests can be an anxious time and it's understandable that you may be feeling worried about things, particularly now over the festive period when waiting times can be a little longer. Hopefully, you will hear something after Christmas but if you've not had contact from the clinic by the new year then you could think about giving them a call. It may be that they're able to offer you a short notice cancellation appointment. 

    Our nurse helpline is now closed for Christmas but they will be back in the office on Wednesday 29th December and are available 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040 if you'd like to chat with them. I'm sure they will be able to offer some advice and support. 

    Do let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Thank you - I got a letter the very next day and will be at the clinic on 5th January. 
     

    I need to stop reading up on Google as all signs point to melanoma. 

  • Hello Roygo

    I'm glad to hear you have an appointment date. Please do avoid searching Google. Much of the information is out of date, inaccurate, or aimed at the spectacular. It won't give you answers but will leave you feeling much more anxious. 

    Hopefully the team will be able to give you some reassurance on January 5th. 

    Let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator