Melanoma and Skin Cancer: When a Dark Spot Needs Medical Attention

Many people notice dark spots, moles, or changes in their skin over time. While most pigmented lesions are harmless, some can represent melanoma or other forms of skin cancer, which require early medical assessment.

If you are researching the warning signs or looking to book a specialist skin cancer check Templestowe residents trust, this clinical guide explains what melanoma is, why it matters in Australia, and exactly when to seek specialist medical advice.

What Is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (skin pigment). Melanoma has the potential to spread rapidly to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

According to the Australasian College of Dermatologists (ACD), early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve patient outcomes. Australia currently has one of the highest rates of melanoma in the world, largely due to:

• High levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
• A predominantly fair-skinned population.
• Cumulative sun exposure over a lifetime.

It is important to note that melanoma can occur at any age and on any part of the body, including areas not regularly exposed to the sun.

How Melanoma May Appear

During a comprehensive skin cancer check Templestowe consultation, a dermatologist will look for specific clinical features. Melanoma may present as:

• A new mole or spot.
• A noticeable change in an existing mole.
• A dark lesion with an irregular shape or colour.
• A spot that looks completely different from others on your body (often referred to clinically as “the ugly duckling”).
• Occasionally, a lesion with little or no pigment (known as amelanotic melanoma).

Because melanoma can sometimes closely resemble benign pigmentation, professional assessment using a dermatoscope is incredibly important.

Warning Signs to Watch For (The ABCDE Guide)

Healthcare professionals and organisations like Cancer Council Australia often use the ABCDE guide to help identify concerning features:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the spot does not match the other.
• B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or uneven edges.
• C – Colour: Multiple colours (brown, black, blue, red, or white) or uneven shading.
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) or increasing in size.
• E – Evolving: Any changes in size, shape, colour, elevation, or new symptoms.

Other concerning signs include itching, bleeding, crusting, or a spot that simply does not heal. These signs do not confirm melanoma on their own, but they strongly indicate that an urgent medical assessment is needed.

Other Types of Skin Cancer

In addition to melanoma, other common skin cancers diagnosed during a routine screening include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Often appears as a pearly bump, a red scaly patch, or a non-healing sore.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): May present as a rapidly growing, scaly, thickened, or ulcerated lesion.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

You may have a higher risk of melanoma if you:

• Have fair skin, light eyes, or light hair.
• Have many moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles.
• Have a personal or family history of melanoma.
• Have had significant sun exposure or severe sunburns in the past.
• Are immunosuppressed.

However, melanoma can occur in anyone, including individuals with darker skin tones.

When to Seek a Specialist Skin Cancer Check Templestowe

You should see a GP or book directly with a specialist dermatologist if you notice a new or changing mole, a lesion that looks different from others, a spot that bleeds or itches, or any pigmented lesion you are unsure about.

At Smooth Skin Dermatology, our Skin Cancer Check services are led by Dr. Sara Sabourirad (MD, FACD). Specialist skin checks utilize clinical examination and digital dermoscopy to accurately distinguish benign lesions from skin cancer, allowing for immediate biopsy or surgical excision if required.

Prevention and Early Detection

The ACD emphasises that sun protection plays a key role in reducing your skin cancer risk. Following guidelines from SunSmart, you should:

• Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ or higher daily.
• Wear protective clothing, broad-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Avoid peak UV exposure in the middle of the day.
• Perform regular self-skin checks at home.
• Attend professional specialist skin checks when recommended.

Early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve outcomes. Book your appointment online or call our reception team on (03) 9021 8833 to schedule your skin cancer check Templestowe today.