Subungual melanoma

I have seen my dermatologist and will be going to a nail specialist/dermatopathologist for a biopsy, but I'm very anxious and have a few questions, so I thought I'd post here.

I noticed a sliver of pigment near my cuticle on 7/11.  Within a week, it grew to where it is now (see pics), but has not grown very much at all in the last week.  I have no recollection of trauma to the area, but it's possible.

First, is this growth behavior indicative of a melanoma?  Does melanoma ever present this way/look like this?  If it is melanoma, would it be in the very early stages considering the spot just appeared 2 weeks ago, or can it already be advanced by the time a pigmentation shows up (that might be my greatest worry).

I may not be able to get in to see the specialist for a biopsy for several weeks as he's booked out for months (my derm is going to talk to him to get me in sooner).  If it is melanoma, is it worrisome that I'd be waiting for weeks?  Could that amount of time affect a prognosis?

Here are the images:
http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad227/gerrly107/c0642b7f.jpg
http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad227/gerrly107/4fdca198.jpg
http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad227/gerrly107/d469786e.jpg
http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad227/gerrly107/b56711fa.jpg

Thank you!

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum!

Based on photos (not clear enough, but still somewhat informative) your lesion looks more like post-traumatic lesion.

However, it is important to exclude malignancy as soon as possible. It is our duty to encourage you to finalize diagnostic circle fast. In general, that positively affects the overall prognosis especially for an early stage melanoma.

Bottom line, do not worry, do not build negative thoughts, and definitely insist on reaching final diagnosis as soon as possible.

Wishing You Optimal Health,
Dr. Jasmina Jankicevic