Concerns About a Potential Amelanotic Melanoma on My Leg
I’m a 30-year-old woman and I discovered something unusual on the back of my leg approximately two months ago. The recent images I took show a small red spot, which slightly bled when I picked at it, and I noticed it bled rather easily. Initially, I thought it might just be an ingrown hair, but this spot hasn’t healed or faded. I had a dermatology appointment in November, but I didn’t notice this mark back then, or at least, it wasn’t visible to me at that time. Booking another appointment rather soon makes me anxious, especially as my health worries have reached an all-time high lately. I am genuinely uncertain about what this could be. After doing some research online, I stumbled upon photos that resembled my situation and had unfortunate outcomes, including melanoma, which has understandably increased my anxiety. The thought of getting it biopsied at urgent care crossed my mind, but that feels like a hasty decision. Nevertheless, the distressing images I’ve seen keep popping into my mind. Regardless, I intend to seek medical advice soon to find some peace of mind regarding this issue. Any thoughts or insights would be greatly welcomed!
Answers (1)
2/4/2026, 12:30:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about new and unusual changes on your skin, especially when they appear concerning. Based on what you described, a small red spot that bleeds easily and hasn’t healed could be a number of things, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. While your concern about melanoma is valid, it’s important to focus on what steps you can take next to address your worries and clarify the situation.
Explanation: Amelanotic melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can appear as a colorless or red spot and is less pigmented than typical melanomas, which can make it harder to identify. Your description of the spot bleeding when picked at and not healing is definitely worth monitoring closely. Skin lesions that don’t resolve or change over time should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, particularly if they exhibit any concerning characteristics.
Next Steps:
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Schedule a Dermatology Appointment: I encourage you to reach out to your dermatologist and explain your concerns about this specific spot. You don’t need to wait long; getting a professional opinion will help ease your anxiety and provide clarity.
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Document Changes: Keep a simple diary where you note the size, shape, color, and any changes in the spot daily. Take clear photos to share with your dermatologist during the upcoming appointment. This will assist in evaluating its progress.
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Avoid Picking: It’s important to refrain from picking at the spot, as this can cause irritation and increase the risk of infection or further bleeding.
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Manage Anxiety: While waiting for your appointment, find ways to cope with your anxiety. Consider practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or talking to supportive friends or family.
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Educate Yourself Wisely: While it’s good to stay informed, try to limit your research to reputable sites and avoid extensive browsing that can exacerbate worries. Focus on general information rather than specific images that could increase your anxiety.
Your feelings are valid, and seeking clarity will ultimately be the best path forward. Knowing that you’re making proactive steps towards your health can help bring some peace of mind. If you have further questions or need additional support, feel free to reach out.
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