What to ask oncologist

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I have stage 3 melanoma of right leg(2nd one). I’ve had a WLE , skin graft and lymph node biopsy which showed cancer spread to wound site and lymph nodes. Ct scan shows no spread to organs and I have first meeting with oncologist this week. I have been told I’ll be looking most likely at immunotherapy for a year. Question- what should I be asking the oncologist- any advice. I’m terrified of the possible side effects of immunotherapy as I take no medication at the moment- am very active and loved travelling.. 

  • Hi there, sounds like we’ve had a similar journey. I understand that most people tolerate the immunotherapy very well without too many side effects. I can’t remember what I asked my oncologist back at your stage. I think I was mostly relieved I didn’t have stage 4, as for a while they were worried about my liver. I remember asking if they had any research studies open that I might be able to get involved in. A nurse in my appointment took notes for me about what we’d discussed which I found really helpful afterwards, as my mind was a bit of blur in the appointments. Talk about the things you’re worried about. You don’t need to ask all the questions now, there’ll be other opportunities to ask questions as and when they occur to you. Wishing you all the best with it.

  • Thanks for your response- I’ve written a few things down and I suppose I’d better listen first! 

  • Had my appt today and advised by my oncologist that risks of immunotherapy don’t outweigh the benefits and now as no spread to major organs I’m to have 6 monthly scans and checks with option for immunotherapy if required in future. I’m relieved as was worried that the side effects could be worse than what I’ve had. 

  • Immunotherapy is different for everyone . I had a year and sailed through it . I was a bit tired . Occasional feeling a little sick constipation but I had tablets for sickness and also for constipation . I found my rosacia flared up but I also had tablets for that one a day antibiotics . Everyone was helpful . I even saw someone about anxiety while having treatment . It helped me get where I am stable and have been since the end of covid lockdown . I have a check in July . I am still being looked after in dermatology  . 

  • I’m to get a ct every 6 months and seen by plastics and dermatology regularly with an open appt for oncology if required. If the cancer had spread beyond lymph nodes then I’d be taking a different route but for now I’m happy to be monitored every regularly. Thanks for your response- it really does put things into perspective. 

  • Glad you’re on a pathway you’re happy with. I was on 6-monthly CTs too and now I’ve dropped down to an annual CT. It’s reassuring to be monitored. I’ve found the time has flown by. Wishing you all the best with it. Slight smile