Possible melanoma

Went to the GP about a mole on my back that my partner had noticed they referred me and I was seen quickly, a biopsy was taken and the doctor I saw was very reassuring that there’s stages a mole goes through before getting to cancer, if it was that they’ve removed the mole etc. however iv received my letter that they’ve wrote to my GP and it states ‘likely early melanoma’ and ‘highly suspicious of early melanoma’ which has spiralled my anxiety because he didn’t really emphasise that at the appointment so I felt quite reassured that I’d be okay. Can they tell it’s in the early stages or could it actually be advanced? The person I saw said 2-12 weeks for results but the lady that removed the mole for biopsy said 6-8. Do they really take this long? It’s only been nearly two weeks and I’m going insane! What is scaring me the most is looking back at pictures I first got a red mark in 2021 and it’s gradually changed which I didn’t notice till I went to the GP and locked back properly, now I’m scared iv noticed it too late. 

  • You did well to go and see the GP when you noticed that mole on your back and it's good that they referred you quickly so that it could be properly investigated. There is useful information on our website on melanoma skin cancer including on stages and types of melanoma skin cancer and if it turns out to be melanoma, it is reassuring news that the doctor thinks it is early melanoma. I think you will know for sure once you get the results from your biopsy and as mentioned on this page on tests for melanoma, it usually takes a couple of weeks to get results after a biopsy but there can be variations. I think if you haven't heard anything back after 2-3 weeks, it is worth perhaps getting in touch with the hospital and checking with them how long it might be for you to get your results - they will be able to give you an accurate estimate as to what to expect. 

    It's normal to worry that you might have waited too long but the important thing is that you did flag it with the GP when you started to be a bit concerned about it and it seems like your GP thinks it was caught early so I am keeping everything crossed for you that you test results will confirm this and I hope that you will get clarity and a diagnosis very soon. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator