Other symptoms of melanoma

Table of contents

Share this post:
Share on facebook
Share on linkedin
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Other symptoms of melanoma to look out for

Below are some of the more unusual symptoms and manifestations of melanoma to keep in mind when caring for your health.

Unexplained sores in the mouth or nose

Sores that won’t heal in your mouth or nasal passages could be a rare form of melanoma called mucosal melanoma. This form of melanoma develops from melanocyte cells in areas of your body that produce mucus such as the lining of your sinuses, nasal passages, oral cavity, vagina, and anus. If you notice any sores in these areas that won’t heal and cannot be explained by other causes, see your doctor and have them checked out.

What does a normal mole look like?

Dark streaks under the nail

Sometimes melanoma can form under the nail. It most commonly appears as a narrow, dark streak. It usually develops on the thumb or big toe but it can occur on any nail. This is usually a sign of acral lentiginous melanoma and while it can occur in individuals of all races, it usually occurs in people with darker skin. Acral lentiginous melanoma can also develop as dark spots or patches on the palms or soles of the feet. Once nodules begin to form, it’s likely that cancer has spread more deeply.

A growing dark spot on the iris or changes in vision

Ocular melanoma is another rare form of melanoma that develops in melanocyte cells. While we may not think of it, our eye also produces melanin and therefore can be at risk for developing melanoma. While this type of melanoma often doesn’t exhibit any symptoms, it can present itself as a dark spot on the iris, a change in the shape of the pupil, poor or blurry vision or as the appearance of flashing light or specks floating in your vision.

A bleeding bump or sore

Melanoma doesn’t always present itself as a mole. If you have a bleeding bump or sore that won’t heal over time, this could also be a symptom of aggressive cancer.

Skin cancer pictures

Moles on the scalp

A place we often forget to check for possible melanomas is on the top of our head. Moles can develop on our scalp as this area is exposed to the sun constantly. If you feel any tender bumps or moles along your scalp line, be to have them checked by a doctor. It’s also wise to have someone examine your scalp for suspicious moles periodically.

The next time you perform a skin check, keep these uncommon symptoms in the back of your mind. Awareness is the first step to early detection.

Download SkinVision to help you track changes in your skin and catch spots or moles early:

Learn the health of your skin
Other symptoms of melanoma 1
Check your skin for skin cancer today.
"The melanoma could have been on my arm for years"
Andrew Bartlett
United Kingdom
"The melanoma could have been on my arm for years"
Andrew Bartlett
United Kingdom

Skin Health news

TOP 3 Body Parts People Miss with Sunscreen
Sunscreen is Your Best Friend (in Winter Too)
Melanoma Men
Melanoma strikes men harder, it’s time to strike back
How does SkinVision’s algorithm detect skin cancer?
SkinVision PZU
What to Expect from Your Skin Check Appointment
SkinVision partners with leading Australian sun protective clothing brand Solbari