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Biopsy confirmed: I have squamous cell carcinoma
Melanoma & Skin Cancer | Last Active: Jun 6, 2025 | Replies (101)Comment receiving replies
I am a veteran of basal cells. All on my scalp. Over 30 years, I have been operated on 5 times, irradiated 1 time, and treated with an immune therapy of Hoffman-Roche 1 time. The cancer is still there. The oncologist is proposing another immunotherapy. Collateral effects are of all types, and the specs say that the product is not guaranteed. Dangerous reactions are possible in 40% of patients and may last a long time once treatment is finished! But it seems to me that I have become more of a guinea pig than a patient!
Replies to "I am a veteran of basal cells. All on my scalp. Over 30 years, I have..."
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Hello @edl189901.
You seem to have way too much experience with Basal cell cancer. Is the same tumor location recurring or are there new ones all on your scalp? Once you have skin changes from the sun exposure than you are predisposed to more developing into tumors. I was on Libtayo, an immunotherapy for skin origin metastatic squamous cell carcinoma, for a bit over 2 years. I was terrified to start it. Side effects for me were tiredness and a change in the taste of food so that appetite diminished. The list of serious side effects for these immunotherapies is long and scary. But in my experience they were looking for problems with each infusion with bloodwork and exam, prepared to treat issues or stop treatment. Perhaps a second opinion at a larger cancer center would be warranted prior to starting this new treatment? My husband and I have been driving 10 hours to Mayo Clinic in MN for 13 years for my cancer treatment. I do believe their expert care is why I am alive today. Good luck with this decision.