several questions about melanoma

[jake1111]

I can't find certain facts concerning features of melanoma and I have a few questions I hope an MD can answer.

1. What is a "blistering sunburn"? Is that liquid filled blisters or does this mean simply peeling skin after sunburn?  The blistering sunburn is listed as a primary risk factor, but I am unsure exactly what the term means.

2. Dermatology appointments are hard to come by in my town. I must wait until late August for my appointment. I am concerned about a few moles and I am curious if 2 months is too long to wait. I am tempted to head to the GP and have him slice a few off and send them for pathology. How good are GP's typically at detecting early melanoma and suggesting removal? Are MM's easy to spot normally?

3. How fast do most melanomas grow? double in size in a decade, a year or in a month?

4. I can find no definitive definition for dysplastic nevus. I have 10-15 spots that are flat, brown, less than the classic "pencil eraser",BUT they have fading borders and are not really symmetric, they look like larger freckles. Would these be considered dysplastic nevi?

5. Do most melanomas have some ulceration in the early stages?

Thanks for the help.