Hi,

What happens is the consultant will take a close look at your nail. If it was a mole on the skin they would look at it through a dermascope and take pictures, however I don't think this kit works on a nail mark. If they think it needs a biopsy the nail will need to either be peeled back or totally removed depending on if they need to take a specimen from the nail bed (I believe this is done under a local anaesthetic). If the consultant has the time, facilities and staff available they may do it at this appointment but most patients get an appointment to go back at a later date.

Good luck and please let us know how you get on.I

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

Hi Kels, 

I just saw your post and wanted to wish you all the best for today.

I can see AngieT has given you some great insight but if you'd like to have a quick chat with one of our cancer nurses about this, you can contact them on 0808 800 4040 between 9a.m - 5p.m.

You can also give them a call after your appointment if you would like to discuss anything further with them.

Kind regards,

Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

Well, I went to the dermatologist and all he did was take a photo of it and said he don't think it's anything and to just keep an eye on it ‍♀️

If you don't feel comforted by the consultation I suggest you take a photo of your nail every 2 weeks for the next 8 weeks. If there is no change ie. It doesn't fade or grow out, ask to be seen again, especially with your family history. Or, if you can afford to, arrange a private consultation to put your mind at rest. If the private consultant says it needs removing you can ask to be transferred back under the NHS.

I have had it for nearly a year now so I know it won't grow out. When I first noticed it, it was very faint and you could only see it in certain lights, now you can see it all the time. He said he could see it but said he wasn't worried and to keep an eye on it. Just seems strange, why wait and not just go ahead to do a biopsy knowing my family history to be sure rather than waste time. 

I can only say that, if it were me in your situation, I would ask to be referred again for a second opinion. Having had it so long and with a family history of this type of melanoma you need a biopsy for your peace of mind.