Skin Cancer on leg has returned after 2 years

Hi nick1982611867 and a very warm welcome to our group.

I replied to you in the skin cancer group so you already know that I was diagnosed with Stage 2a melanoma. 

Unfortunately, melanoma can pop up again at any time so the fact that yours has doesn't necessarily mean that "they missed a bit" last time.

I haven't had treatment for Stage 3 but there are lots of people in the group who have so hopefully some of them will be along soon to tell you about the different types of drug treatment.

I don't know if surgery would be any quicker through the private sector and I guess the only way of finding out would be to enquire at your local private hospitals. They should be able to tell you how long the wait might be, whether they can do a full CT scan and if they are able to offer the same after surgery treatment as the NHS.

Let us know what you decide to do.

Anne

Hello,

I am so sorry that you are going through this tough time. It is hard to get under control.

My husband started off in a similar position, it has since proved to be aggressive. This is only my opinion, and a reflection of what we have been through. We've found that the more information we have the clearer the choice. Everything is easier in hindsight too.

He had a wide leg incision which took out his lymph nodes in his groin (southmead). He followed this with targeted therapy which worked for him, really well, with zero side effects. No recurrence until 2 months after his finished his year of targeted therapy. Things have changed dramatically and he is now on a trial in London. He has also had immunotherapy, radiotherapy and all sorts! Immunotherapy which I think might be your other option works really well for some people. It will depend if you are BRAF+ or not i think. If you are then targeted may be the best option to start with. 

My advice from our experience is keep asking questions. Ask everyone you meet. Record the meetings if that helps. Sometimes you can request a Macmillan nurse (who also sometimes work beside a surgeon) and ask them to explain the options, results expected and if that doesn't work, what's next. I agree about the ct for what its worth too. Push for every investigation, and lean on those who you meet along the way. Someone WILL be able to help you. Push for treatment without a break. Push for the next step. If something doesn't feel right, ask. The dermatology department are a good place to start and may help coordinate your journey. 

Wishing you the best of luck with it all. Stay strong. If this is any help and you want to chat DM me. 

JJP

thanks for the reply.

I have no idea about 'BRAF+ ' I just Googled it.... I will have to ask them if I am or not

Hi there, sorry to hear your cancer has returned. Just on the CT scan point, and speaking only from my own experience (stage 3B melanoma on foot removed April 2024), the CT scans are to identify if there has been any spread beyond lymph nodes to major organs. In the case of melanoma I believe the most likely spread is to the brain, lungs and liver. I have been having three-monthly CT scans since june 2024 and they are only ever from head to groin. (I also have MRI scans for a detailed look for any brain lesions.)  All clear so far but I am currently worrying about a spot on the foot which looks suspicious, and have an appointment tomorrow for someone to have a look at it.

Ref the intravenous drug treatment, I had that for 12 months - there are any different types but I had Pembrolizumab every six weeks, nine treatment in total. I wasn’t given the option of oral medication.

All the best for your surgery.