Protocol

Get a changing skin mark assessed instead of repeatedly asking an app

A clearer photo can be useful. It cannot supply a diagnosis by itself.

When it fits

A mole changes or an unusual skin mark persists or causes concern.

When to avoid it

This card cannot determine whether a mark is benign or malignant. An absence of listed features is not proof of safety, and rapidly worsening or severe symptoms need timely medical advice.

Why it matters

Arrange a professional assessment for a changing mole or a new unusual, painful, itchy, bleeding or crusting mark. Describe what changed and when. Use any existing photographs as supporting information without delaying care to build a perfect monitoring record.

Steps

Note the change, duration and relevant symptoms.
Book the appropriate clinical assessment and mention concerning changes when arranging it.
Use the clinician's follow-up advice rather than treating an app's reassurance as clearance.

An example

A person brings a dated photo showing that a mark changed shape and explains the change to a clinician.

Check your result

Concern leads to an assessment or a clear professional follow-up plan.

Keep this limit in mind

This card cannot determine whether a mark is benign or malignant. An absence of listed features is not proof of safety, and rapidly worsening or severe symptoms need timely medical advice.

Connected ideas

Evidence and sources

Supports

NHS recommends professional assessment of changing moles and specified new, painful, itchy, bleeding or persistent unusual skin marks.

This is a reason to seek assessment, not a rule for diagnosing cancer or ruling it out.

Moles · When to seek a GP assessment

All sources (1)

Moles