4 Successive Melanoma Findings

Posted by jcconley @jcconley, Sep 10 7:20am

I’ve now had 4 separate biopsies come back in the last 10 months with “almost melanoma” on my right shin, “melanoma in-situ” on my right breast, and two successive instances of “invasive melanoma” on my inner right arm, upper and lower. First 3 areas have been excised with clear margins. 4th one is scheduled to be excused in a couple of weeks.

1) anyone else going through something like this
2) I’m getting full body skin checks every 3 months. Is there anything else I should be doing to stay on top of this issue beyond that?

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ebb606 | @ebb606 | Sep 11 10:12am

My case is similar to yours. One of mine is the bottom of my foot.
Nothing else to do.
Eat healthy, stay positive, and continue to see your dermatologist every 3 months.
Be kind to yourself.
I wear long sleeves and a big hat all the time, and wear sunscreen

Susan, Volunteer Mentor | @grammato3 | Sep 11 11:24am

@jcconley: That sounds like an intense several months. You may find these helpful: an overview from Mayo Clinic on melanoma, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/melanoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20374884 and this on skin cancer prevention - https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/simple-steps-to-prevent-skin-cancer

I'm wondering if you've possibly been treating with, referred to or would consider inquiring about treatment with an oncologist in addition to a dermatologist who I presume has been treating you? Sometimes additional testing may be performed based on your history and findings. And may I ask how you're doing from a mental ? Speaking from personal perspective, it can be one thing to tackle this physically, but another to wrap your head around the potential implications.

lavendarflares | @lavendarflares | Sep 12 7:39am

My husband is going through the same thing. He is scheduled for a Vectra WB360 3D scan of the skin at the end of the month that can identify problem areas for the dermatologist to keep an extra check on. There are only cameras for this in certain areas of the country. You have to pay for it on your own. Where he is going is AHN West Penn in Pittsburgh, PA and it will be $250.