HomeAnswersDermatologydark spotsCan a dark spot in a thigh be melanoma?

I have a small dark spot on my thigh with anxiety and OCD. Is it melanoma?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At June 18, 2020
Reviewed AtAugust 18, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I found a very small dark spot on my thigh today. To the best of my recollection, I have never seen it before. Now, of course, I am thinking the worse and believe I have melanoma. I am olive-skinned. I have never had an issue with moles or dark spots before. My mom had a pre-cancerous growth removed from her face years ago and she is fine. She goes to her check-ups and applies sunscreen all the time. When I was a kid, I never saw my mom applying sunscreen. It was the 70's and it was just something we did not do. She just turned 76. I have attached a photo. I am sure you will think it is something that should be looked at and so do I. I am going to make an appointment with a dermatologist. But I also suffer from health anxiety, depression and OCD so I am convinced it is melanoma and I am feeling very depressed right now.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen the pictures (attachment removed to protect patient identity). No, it is not melanoma. It is a normal nevus (benign). For your confirmation, you can go for an excisional biopsy of the lesion. Histopathology reports will confirm that the lesion is benign or malignant. Do not worry it is normal nevus due to melanosis (increase in melanin pigment).

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I have two more questions. One is, will that will go away? And second is, do you think it is something I should have checked out immediately or keep an eye on it for now?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Melanosis or nevus can be hereditary or genetic in which no treatment is needed. Or due to external factors like UV (ultraviolet) rays or increase in melanocytes (which can be treated with demelanizing agents like Kojic cream or sunscreen). Avoid UV rays to enter body-protective measures. Check for its size, borders, color change, any symptom associated like pain, irritation, bleeding, burning, and itching. Revert back if any change seen. Avoid stress. Do not worry. It is a normal nevus.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

So in other words, no need to rush and get a.biopsy unless I see changes?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, no need to rush for biopsy.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav
Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav

Venereology

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