Melanomas can vary greatly in the way they look. The first sign of a melanoma is usually a change in an existing freckle or mole or the appearance of a new spot.

The change may be in:

• Colour: blotchy with a wide variety of colours, such as brown, black, blue, red, white and/or light grey.

• Size: begins to grow

• Shape: irregular edge (scalloped or notched). If a line was drawn through the middle of the melanoma, the two sides would not match up. It may increase in height or become scaly.

A freckle or mole that itches from time to time or bleeds can suggest a change. Changes are normally noticed over several weeks or months rather than days.

It is normal for new moles to appear and change during childhood and pregnancy. However, in adults a new mole could be a melanoma. Talk to your doctor about any changes.

Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, but mainly develops in areas that are usually or occasionally exposed to the sun.

Relevant investigations can include:

• Fine Needle Biopsy

• MRI

• Blood Tests

• Histopathology

• Radiology

• Staging Melanoma

• Lymphoscintigraphy

• Ultrasound

• PET Scanning

• Dermoscopy