Concerned about back skin patch - Could this be melanoma?

Question

Hello doctor,

I would want advice regarding an area on my back that initially appeared to be a dry, itchy skin patch. It has grown into a red, dry spot that periodically oozes and itches over a month. I made the grave error of attempting to diagnose it myself after reading up on the many forms of skin cancer. I am not sure what to believe because there is so much information available that it gets overwhelming. As a result, I am now really anxious about it. I scheduled a dermatology appointment, but I am nervous since I think it may be melanoma that has spread. I am worried about my health until I find out exactly what it is. If this is melanoma, please let me know. Below are photos of it from when I first spotted it till the present. Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

You have seborrheic keratosis based on your descriptions. The most prevalent benign tumors, seborrheic keratoses, typically appear as we age. They usually start with the emergence of one or more well-defined, flat, light brown macules, which are most common on the head, neck, and back. They are usually asymptomatic. Investigations: No need for laboratory testing exists. Look out for the Leser-Trélat sign, which is the fast onset of many itchy lesions. This sign is linked to the development of lymphoma, Sézary syndrome, acute leukemia, and gastrointestinal tract adenocarcinoma. Therapy: After speaking with your general practitioner or a local dermatologist, apply a topical treatment or 30% trichloroacetic acid cautery (TCA) twice daily for 16 weeks.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.