First oncologist apt

Hi Bees 

I didn't need to see an oncologist when I was diagnosed with melanoma, as my SLNB was clear, but I noticed that your post hadn't had any replies yet. Responding to you will 'bump' it back to the top of the discussion list again.

However, I did see an oncologist after a trace amount of cancer cells were found after a SLNB when I was later diagnosed with breast cancer. The oncologist explained how many cancer cells had been found and how much of a benefit, in percentage terms, having further treatment would be. He went on to explain what treatment he was recommending, what the side effects might be and how soon I would start treatment if I wanted to go ahead. I would assume that your appointment might follow a similar pattern.

While you're waiting for replies, it would be great if you could put something about your diagnosis and treatment into your profile as it really helps others when replying to you and also when looking for someone on a similar pathway. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.

Let us know how you get on

Anne

Thank you for that information and yes I’m sure it will be along the lines of what you have mentioned.

thanks again 

Hi - a lot will be relate to the stage of your melanoma. I was Stage 2b and even though my WLE and SLNB came back clear, because of the depth of the primary melanoma, 2.2mm with ulceration, the oncologist recommended immunotherapy for me. 

(The plastic surgeon had said I might need a 'quick mop up', which in fact ended up being a programme of 12 months of treatment)

Hope you don't have to wait too much longer!

Hi, aw thank you for this information as that’s exactly like my primary so I’m guessing they might offer me that.

how are you getting along being on it? Is it an injection every 6 weeks? 
thank you for responding x

Yes they may do - each situation is so individual, eg if you have pre-existing conditions that may affect the type of treatment being offered. If they recommend treatment they will also go through the potential side effects during your consultation.

I was put on infusions of Pembrolizumab 3 weekly (I was seen privately) but 6 weekly does seem to be very common. 

I was meant to be on for 12 months, but after 5 doses I had a routine 3 monthly scan and they’ve found nodules in my lungs, so it’s now Stage 4. 

The oncologist has changed my treatment to ipi/nivo in an attempt to bring it under control.

Apart from feeling tired and having itchy skin, oh and diagnosed with an under active thyroid, I still feel 100% healthy. 

Happy to answer any other questions, just always important to bear in mind that everybody’s experience is different. Are you on FB melanomamates? I’ve found it really helpful. 

Aw thank you so much for all that information. Gosh you have really been through it.

sending positive vibes.