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Vaginal melenoma

A MyMelanomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Lewiston, ME

I had a biopsy but wasn't given a follow up, only suggested that it might be from child bearing but it had never been there previously, now it has spread and I haven't had another exam in over 5 years. Where it was once on just the left it's begun to show up on the right side. I was also diagnosed with lichens sclerosis, but given no other follow up information or actions to take. Has anyone else gone through this I'm scared.

January 10
 · 
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MyMelanomaTeam

Are you experiencing symptoms of vulvar melanoma that need medical attention?

It's completely understandable to feel scared, especially without proper follow-up care. What you're describing—pigmented areas that have spread from one side to the other over five years—needs immediate medical evaluation.

Vulvar melanoma can Show Full Answer

Are you experiencing symptoms of vulvar melanoma that need medical attention?

It's completely understandable to feel scared, especially without proper follow-up care. What you're describing—pigmented areas that have spread from one side to the other over five years—needs immediate medical evaluation.

Vulvar melanoma can present as dark spots that change over time. Key symptoms to watch for include:

* Black or dark brown spots (though other colors are possible)
* Changes in color, shape, or size of existing spots
* Open sores, bleeding, or discharge
* Itching, lumps, or pain
* Areas that develop near the clitoris or labia

You need to see a gynecologist or dermatologist right away. Five years without follow-up after a biopsy showing concerning changes is too long, especially with new symptoms appearing. Vulvar melanoma is rare but serious. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, possibly blood tests, imaging scans, and another biopsy to confirm whether cancer cells are present. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.

The median age for vulvar melanoma diagnosis is 68, and it's more common after menopause. While lichen sclerosus is a separate condition, any pigmented lesions developing in that area deserve careful monitoring.

Please don't wait—schedule an appointment with a specialist as soon as possible. Bring your previous biopsy results if you have them, and explain how the spots have changed and spread. You deserve proper care and answers.

January 10

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