My 93 year old Mum had a melanoma on her right arm removed 2 years ago and had one further lump appeared in October 2020. This was again removed, however, after a Pet scan she was also diagnosed with a small upper bowel tumour and recurring melanoma in her right arm. She refused any further surgery or treatment as she suffered badly after her first op and has been through such a lot. She was given a prognosis of 12 months by the dermatology doctor, although we did not see an Oncologist. The Dermatology doctor requested her GP organise palliative care, for her, but at the moment she has no serious symptoms, apart from the new melanoma nodules. So they have not got involved yet.
More recently a cluster of 12 new, quite large (half inch) red raised nodules have appeared near the site of her Primary melanoma. These are getting bigger each week. They look awful, but are not sore at the moment.
Apart from that she is well, but frail, with no other major medical problems. She has 4 carers every day visit her at the moment.
Since she has opted for no further treatment, I am unable to discuss Mum's worsening problems with any dermatology professional who understands her melanoma. I feel quite exposed, trying to help her but not understanding what steps I can take to help her. I also don't know what to expect. Are these nodules going to get much worse, or cause pain or bleeding?
Does anyone else in this forum have similar experiences of this?
I would appreciate some guidance on what to expect next and how to get any help she may need.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Loopyloo55
I am really sorry to read this, and also that I can't give you any answers that you are looking for, but maybe it would be beneficial if you transferred this post over to Ask A Nurse
They may take up to 3 days to give some answers, but there is other advise available there too if you need responses quicker.
Take Care
Lowe'
