Follow-up Question

[Distressed15]

Dr. Rockoff,

I wrote to you on December 6th about a 1mm black growth shaped like a line that I noticed and picked off near my bikini area. First I would like to thank you for your response. I do have a couple follow-up questions though, just to make sure I fully understand your response...

If it was a melanoma, it wouldn't have been able to just be picked off, especially without pain or bleeding? If it had been anything bad, would the mole or whatever it was have grown back? Like I said, I have been watching it for a month now and it just looks like normal skin that is slightly lighter in color, due to a small scar. There is no thickness in the skin at all.

Just want to make sure potential malignant cells are not deep in the skin now, even though there is no presence of anything on the surface. Would a biopsy of the area where it was be unnecessary?

Thanks for your time.

[Distressed15]

Do you recommend being seen in person, because you think this may be something?

I do not have health insurance at the moment, but could call and see how much a visit would be, if you think it would be necessary to be examined...

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

You couldn't scratch off a melanoma and leave malignant cells underneath where they can't be seen.  However, you'll need to be examined in person for a definitive diagnosis.  If there is nothing visible at all, then a biopsy will probably not be necessary.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff