Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that affects melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. It can develop anywhere on the body, including areas not exposed to the sun.

The most common symptoms of melanoma include changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole or growth, but there are also some uncommon symptoms that people should be aware of. In this article, we will explore these uncommon symptoms and why they are important to know.

Nail Changes

Melanoma can affect the nails, causing changes in their color, shape, and texture. For example, a person may notice a brown or black streak under the nail, or the nail may become discolored or brittle.

In some cases, the nail may detach from the underlying skin. These changes can be a sign of subungual melanoma, a rare form of melanoma that develops under the nail.

Eye Changes

Melanoma can also develop in the eye, where it is known as ocular melanoma. This type of melanoma can cause changes in vision, such as blurring, distortion, or loss of peripheral vision.

A person with ocular melanoma may also experience eye pain, or notice a dark spot on the iris or in the white of the eye. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all.

Oral Changes

Melanoma can occur in the mouth, although it is rare. When it does develop in the mouth, it may cause changes such as ulcers, lumps, or discoloration of the gums, tongue, or other areas.

These changes can be a sign of oral melanoma, a type of melanoma that develops in the mucous membranes of the mouth.

Scalp Changes

Melanoma can develop on the scalp, particularly in people with a history of sunburn or skin damage in this area. When melanoma develops on the scalp, it may cause changes such as a lump, sore, or scaly patch.

These changes can be a sign of scalp melanoma, a rare form of melanoma that can be difficult to detect.

Vascular Changes

In rare cases, melanoma can cause changes in the blood vessels, leading to symptoms such as varicose veins, bruising, or bleeding. When melanoma develops in the blood vessels, it is known as angiotropic melanoma.

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This type of melanoma can be difficult to diagnose, as it may not be visible on the surface of the skin.

Neurological Changes

Melanoma can also affect the nervous system, causing symptoms such as headaches, seizures, or weakness in the limbs. When this happens, it is known as metastatic melanoma, as the cancer has spread from its original site to other parts of the body.

Metastatic melanoma can be difficult to treat, but early detection and treatment can improve the chances of survival.

Gastrointestinal Changes

In rare cases, melanoma can develop in the digestive system, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or a change in bowel habits. When this happens, it is known as gastrointestinal melanoma.

This type of melanoma can be difficult to detect, as the symptoms can be vague and may not be noticed until the cancer has spread.

Respiratory Changes

Melanoma can also develop in the lungs, causing symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. When this happens, it is known as pulmonary melanoma. This type of melanoma is rare, but can be aggressive and difficult to treat.

Hormonal Changes

In rare cases, melanoma can affect the hormones, leading to symptoms such as weight gain or loss, fatigue, or changes in sexual function. When this happens, it is known as paraneoplastic syndrome.

This type of melanoma can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms may be attributed to other causes.

Conclusion

While changes in moles and growths are the most common symptoms of melanoma, it is important to be aware of the uncommon symptoms as well.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor, as early detection and treatment can improve your chances of survival. Remember to practice sun safety and perform regular skin checks to catch melanoma early.