Hi Debs99,

Without wanting to worry you I think you are correct to question your GP's diagnosis. Unfortunately not all GPs are fully trained in the signs of melanoma, especially the moles/lesions that don't fall into the normal category of the ABCDE rule. Your 'mole' may well be a benign skin condition but I would ask to see another GP at the surgery for a second opinion. Ask if there is one who is trained in dermatology (some practices have one GP trained in this field) as this would be more reassuring. The reason I advise this is because not all melanomas are pigmented moles. Some can be none pigmented - they are called Amelanotic melanomas and they are not very common so they can be easily discounted as benign growths. Take a look at this link and then ask to see another GP - perhaps push for a dermatology referral if you are still unhappy with the subsequent diagnosis. Good luck, and please let us know how you get on www.skincancer.org/.../amelanotic-melanoma

Angie (melanoma patient)