I was just diagnosed with Malignant Melanoma. Anyone else?

Question

I just had a Malignant Melanoma removed and don't have the path results in yet. Anybody else been through this that could offer some insights as to what I am facing?

When I first noticed mole on back of leg it was (___) this size and smooth. Abut a month later, I don't shave legs often, it was (_________) this size and large enough that I almost cut it off with razor. I went to dermatologist and she removed that and the biopsy came back malignant and they removed an area as large as a drink coaster and 1/2 deep. My leg looks like I got bit by a shark (smile) That is the report we are waiting for. to see if the margins are clear. I apologize for not explaining better. I don't have x=ray or blood work back yet. Probably today. Thank you for your answers.

Answer 1

Has it already been determined to be melanoma, or was it removed due to suspicion of being melanoma? If it is melanoma, your outcome will vary greatly on how far it's progressed. Melanoma in situ or in Stage I (sometimes even II), you don't need further treatment. You'll be asked to see your dermatologist more often for checkups, as melanoma is likely to reoccur. If it has progressed, you'll be looking at a barrage of tests (if you haven't had them already) possibly including x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, PET scans, etc. You'll probably undergo some sort of lymph node biopsy (sentinel seems to be the weapon of choice these days).

You may also be looking at adjuvant therapy. Adjuvant therapy is usually given to help prevent the cancer from reoccuring. Common forms are immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Immunotherapy is taking doses of interferon or interleukin, which helps boost your immune system. It can be given high-dose or low-dose. High-dose is more harmful, and may even require a hospital stay. Low-dose has fewer side effects, including flu-like symptoms and nausea. There are various forms of chemo that may be used, usually with side effects similar to that of immunotherapy.

Depending on the actual diagnosis, you may be looking at radiation therapy as well. Radiation is used to shrink tumors, either prior to excision or entirely. Common side effects are hair loss at the site of treatment, as well as sensitive/raw-feeling skin at the site of treatment (some people compare it to a mild to moderate burn). There are creams and lotions that can help these effects.

Feel free to contact me (through my profile page) if you want more info. Best of luck!

Answer 2

Not to be insensitive, but if you know it is a melanoma already, then what are you waiting for a path report for? Have they not staged it yet?