Recurrent Melanoma

Please excuse my lack of terminology. My father had a Stage 3 melanoma removed from his foot 3 years ago, they removed his big toe and a portion of his foot as well. He also had the lymph node in his groin removed.

 A week ago he had 3 skin sections removed for biopsy on the same leg. One on his ankle, another a few inches higher, and the third (largest) was on his inner lower calf. They were confirmed as melanoma this morning. He has an appointment for Friday with his surgical oncologist. 

 Having done some research over the last few hours regarding recurrent melanoma, it seems that the options are limited and offer a poor prognosis.

 Is this correct? Or am I just reading into the online information incorrectly?

As far as I know, his first occurrence did not involve any chemo, radiation, etc.

 Thank you for your time.

 Joe

Hi Joe,

Utilizing information on line can be very helpful, and truly give light as to what could be expected.  However, every individual is different.  Please remember that your dad is an individual.  This site is a very good one, and holds a great deal of reliable information. There are many great survival stories, and lots of wonderful people including caregivers, survivors & patients who post here.

As a caregiver, I feel the burning need to be more informed.  I want to make sure I am doing all that can be done to help my loved one succeed in his battle against melanoma.  I pour through sites daily learning all I can.

You and your Dad are in my thoughts and prayers.    

On 12/3/2007 JoeSan32 wrote:

Please excuse my lack of terminology. My father had a Stage 3
melanoma removed from his foot 3 years ago, they removed his big toe
and a portion of his foot as well. He also had the lymph node in his
groin removed.

 A week ago he had 3 skin sections removed
for biopsy on the same leg. One on his ankle, another a few inches
higher, and the third (largest) was on his inner lower calf. They were
confirmed as melanoma this morning. He has an appointment for Friday
with his surgical oncologist. 

 Having done some
research over the last few hours regarding recurrent melanoma, it seems
that the options are limited and offer a poor prognosis.

 Is this correct? Or am I just reading into the online information incorrectly?

As far as I know, his first occurrence did not involve any chemo, radiation, etc.

 Thank you for your time.

 Joe

I expect you have had answers by now but I'm replying as I have only just seen your query.
As
I understand it, the surgery and other treatments are usually disease
control, not cure. The melonoma can return anywhere because the cancer
cells are in the lymph. So chemo. and radiation cannot deal with this.

Some people have had no recurrence when it has been caught very early.

Best wishes 

Odell