Nodular Amelanonic Melanoma

[au1222]

I am a 29-year old, fair-skinned female with a history of sun exposure as a teenager and young adult.  I have a fair amount of freckles/moles--predominantly on my upper arms, shoulders, chest and upper back.  I see the dermatologist once a year for full body checks, and to date, have only had one abnormal mole removed.

About two weeks ago I noticed a small bump on my right shoulder.  It is approximately 3-4 mm in length and oblong.  It is very slightly raised and pinkish in color.  It has what appears to be two "peaks" with a "valley" in between (I guess you could say it looks like two bumps that are closely spaced, but the proximity makes me suspect they are part of the same lesion).  It is slightly tender to the touch and stings when my shirt sleeve rubs against it.  It is smooth to the touch and appears to be growing ever so slightly, however that could also be due to my constant prodding.

I realize that nodular amelanonic melanoma is very rare, however, I am terrified that this is indeed that.  I was diagnosed with breast cancer (Paget's Disease) at age 27, which is rare (especially in someone my age), so I have a history of rare diagnoses.  I do not know when the bump appeared, because I just noticed it, but I would imagine it has not been there for more than a few months.  

I have an appointment with my dermatologist next Friday (10 days from now--the earliest I could get in), however I am terrified that that is not soon enough.  I know that you cannot make any determinations without actually examining the bump, but any reassurances would be appreciated.

Thank you very much for your help.

[deanboat]

I am 46, and have noticed a new small growth on the uderside of my forearm. It ia small (2-3mm) ,round, light bluish, soft, and just slightly raised above the skin (less than 1mm). It stings when I rub my arm across this spot. Feels like a small insect bite ot somthing, but I have had this spot (I think unchanging for the most part) for at least several months now.

Unfortunately, I went onto the internet and am conserned about the chances of nodular melanoma. Very scary stuff. Should I be conserned, or do you have any other possible diagnosis.

Thank you for the response!

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

The odds are 1000:1 that this is just a benign mole.  I'm glad you're seeing a doctor soon, who may do a biopsy or may be able to tell just by looking.  Please share the intensity of your anxiety, so he or she will do their best to reassure you.  However, I'm confident you're OK.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff