1. < Melanoma & Skin Cancer

DecisionDx-Melanoma (Castle test): When is it necessary?

Posted by birdman518 @birdman518, Nov 2, 2021

After having melanoma removed from my scalp in June, I had my first checkup today with my original dermatologist that found it. He mentioned that I might want to have a Castle test done. From reading about it on the company's website, it almost sounds as if it is for people who have *not* had a SNB and are trying to decide. I *did* have them and all came out clear.
It sounds like the Castle test does not really give much actionable information for someone like me. I am going to reach out to my surgeon (at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa) to see what they say about it. So far they have said I am clear and only need to have quarterly checkups with my dermatologist like anyone else.
I would appreciate any comments or experiences....
Thanks,
Mitch

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donnajones | @donnajones | Nov 14, 2024

I had a melanoma on my back it was large but very shallow. I showed it to my NP one year and she didn’t think it was anything then the next year we forgot about it. When I got to dermatologist a little before two years since I first noticed it I felt so fortunate it had enlarged size but not depth. I’ve been melanoma free for many many years but I would have loved to have had the castle test done but didn’t know about it. I don’t think this could be something they contract with a doc for that he is paid for because that sounds like a conflict of interest - some might not refer you cause it would
Be additional
Money out of their pocket. Good luck to you all who have had I’m wishing you the best .

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Moderator
Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Nov 22, 2024
In reply to @grammato3 "I'm not convinced about Castle Testing. I had it performed back in early 2020 on an..." + (show)
@grammato3

I'm not convinced about Castle Testing. I had it performed back in early 2020 on an amelanotic lesion that was melanoma requiring surgery. The test results came back as 1A: low chance of recurrence/metastasis. Well, four years later and it metastasized, which is why I'm here now. I think because it was done so soon after approval I was never billed for it, but repeatedly asked if I wanted to give a charitable contribution to the company.

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@grammato3, I'm sorry to hear that the melanoma has metastacized. What treatment plan has been recommended for you? What are the next steps?

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grammato3 | @grammato3 | Nov 22, 2024

Actually I consider myself fortunate in that it was very serendipitous that this was detected as early as it was. I opted for Keytruda which I'll be starting on Wednesday for 3 cycles, then be evaluated for consideration of surgery to remove the lung nodule. I've gone from being shocked at the diagnosis to being optimistic and encouraged by the treatment options. And, of course, confidence in the Mayo care team.

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