How quickly does nodular melanoma spread?

Variable: Most do not spread at all if treated by appropriate surgery. Others spread to lymph nodes and some may be cured by removing the affected nodal area. Others spread to brain, bone, liver etc. The rate of progression in metastatic cancer varies from a few months in the worst case to a few years. There are new drugs that offer some hope even for metastatic melanoma.

Depends on Depth: Depth of melanoma is the most important factor. Your biopsy/excision of the melanoma should report how deep the tumor extends, which is the most important aspect of prognosis. Discuss with your surgeon/dermatologist.

Varies: Different melanoma grow at different speeds. It is very hard to predict their growth rate.

Can Spread Quickly: Nodular melanomas tend to grow up as a nodule, and down into the skin. With melanomas, the deeper it is into the skin, the more likely it is to spread. So ask your doctor the depth of penetration in millimeters or the clarks level. Prognosis depends on the depth of penetration, and not the type of melanoma.