Is it Melanoma

My mother passed away in Feb of 2009 from metastic melanoma so i am very perinoid about my own skin. I recently noticed just yeasterday actually that i have a small red spot under my nail right where nail meets the skin. I dont remember hurting it. My question is is this melanoma? It actually looks more like  a bruise but im very scared sbout it. My dermatologist cant get me in until June 5 I know early treatment is necessary with melanoma should I wait this long. Im only 25 and am a single mother to a 5 year old.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear about your mother.  Aside from the skin, other areas where melanoma may develop include the nail bed, mucosal tissue , scalp or eyes. These melanomas are relatively uncommon. The most common early warning sign is the appearance of a brown to black-colored streak underneath the nail, which is often mistaken for a bruise. Other symptoms that are worthy to know are  elevated  or separated nail bed, skin next to the nail becomes darker  or nail looks deformed or as if it is being destroyed.  Biopsy is the only way to diagnosis melanoma. In the early stages, treatment consists of surgically removing the melanoma. More advanced melanoma may require amputation of the affected finger or toe along with possible removal of the regional lymph nodes and chemotherapy. If you see any of the syptoms (symptoms) mentioned, have this evaluated further for proper diagnosis and to ease your anxiety.

Take care and keep us posted.