Symptoms of Melanoma Cancer That Has Spread

Symptoms of Melanoma Cancer That Has Spread The melanoma, which has spread from the skin to other parts of the body, is called metastatic melanoma. However, since melanoma is often initially presented as an abnormal mole, many people with this malignancy can get a diagnosis before the cancer has spread.

This mole can be asymmetric, have an unequal border, have an inconsistent color, be large, or change over time. A melanoma can also occur as a sore or itchy bump, as a delicate nodule or as a skin stain that is scaly or bleeding. In some cases, there are no early signs of melanoma. For example, if the cancer begins from the mucosa instead of the skin, one mole may not be present.

Symptoms of a metastatic melanoma other than a mole

Other symptoms of this cancer can only occur at a later stage when the melanoma is metastasized into another area of the body. Metastatic melanoma is most commonly spread to the lymph nodes, brain, bone, liver or lung, and the additional symptoms that occur at this late stage will depend on where the melanoma has spread. For example:

Lungs – persistent cough or shortness of breath
Brain – headaches or seizures
Lymph nodes – swelling of the lymph nodes
Liver – lack of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Bone-bone pain or unusual fractures

What if I have metastatic melanoma symptoms?
Whether you have a suspicious mole or experience some symptoms of a melanoma at an advanced stage, it is important to consult with a physician to obtain accurate diagnosis, as many other diseases may cause similar symptoms. At the Moffitt Cancer Center we offer a comprehensive range of screening, diagnostics, treatment and support services for patients with melanoma and other types of cancer.