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DiscussionBad biopsy results for melanoma: How to get a second opinion?
Melanoma & Skin Cancer | Last Active: Apr 18 8:08pm | Replies (9)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Thanks for your reply! How would you recommend I find a melanoma specialist? It is difficult..."
@tillymack If I were in your shoes, I would first call to insurance to see if they will cover a second opinion. Then reach out to a local cancer center and request information on a melanoma expert within their areas.
When my melanoma was diagnosed, it was because I had to push for a biopsy. Four different doctors told me, "it's nothing to worry about" without doing a biopsy. In your situation, given family history, it's important this be addressed sooner rather than later, I would think! It might look like an unusual mole, but could be more. Safe rather than sorry. And don't be afraid to ask at your dermatologist's office if the practitioner they want to use has experience with this type of procedure!
Ginger
@tillymack
You may want to call medical offices that treat melanoma cancer to ask for referrals to/recommendations of dermatologists they work with for precancerous mole removal that may be a risk of turning into melanoma due to biopsy result and family history risk. The sooner you have the irregular/abnormal mole/cells removed, the better. Leaving them can turn it into melanoma.
1.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/moles/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375204
2. https://www.aimatmelanoma.org/melanoma-learning-center/find-a-melanoma-specialist/
3. https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/melanoma/finding-the-right-doctor-for-melanoma-treatment
4. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/melanoma-skin-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/prevention.html
5. https://www.aimatmelanoma.org/melanoma-101/how-melanoma-is-diagnosed/health-professionals-you-might-see/
6. https://skincancer-specialists.com/skin-condition/how-to-avoid-melanoma-a-complete-guide-to-protecting-your-skin/
7. https://www.curemelanoma.org/patient-eng/ten-tips-for-people-just-diagnosed-with-melanoma/choosing-your-doctor
8. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/kimmel-cancer-center/cancers-we-treat/melanoma/prevention-diagnosis
9. https://skincancer-specialists.com/skin-condition/the-ultimate-guide-to-understanding-melanoma/