Whilst amelanotic melanoma is relatively uncommon fatality rates tend to be higher because they often go undetected for longer, are often misdiagnosed because they mimic other skin lesions and are therefore commonly diagnosed at later stages.
Any subtype of melanoma can be amelanotic. They can appear flat and irregular, indicating an amelanotic superficial spreading melanoma, or elevated and firm to touch, indicating an amelanotic nodular melanoma. They may also present as a non-healing sore on the sole of the foot or lesion under the nail.
Due to the lack of pigment, whilst amelanotic melanoma are classically described as skin-coloured, a substantial proportion appear as red or pink.
If you notice anything of this nature growing, changing shape, or not healing - it’s imperative to get it checked out asap.
For all the information, advice and self management tools you need to help you reduce your risk of skin cancer, detect the early warning signs and confidently take action with concerns - install the Skcin app on your mobile device today!
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