Melanoma Insitu

[kattdan72]

Hi, had a mole removed in November last year which was a melanoma Insitu and then extra skin removed this year to be sure all cells were got. Now that it's happened once am I more prone for it to happen again?

I should have asked the dermatologist at the time but was still not believing it could happen.
Thank you.

[Dr Anton Alexandroff]

Dear Kattdan72,

Thank you for your question. I am sorry to hear that you had melanoma but it is great news that it was detected and removed at a very early stage - melanoma in situ. Melanoma in situ stage means that it is 100% curable and there is no risk of recurrence or spread in future. This is great news!

However, you are correct that if you had melanoma in situ you are at a higher risk, than the other people, of developing another melanoma in future. Therefore you have to be very careful /sensible with sun protection and you need to do monthly self examinations of your skin. If you think that you developed an unusual mole or a preexisting mole changed you need to see your GP or dermatologist.

I hope this is helpful.
With Best Wishes,

Dr Anton Alexandroff FRCP(UK) PhD CCT(Derm) FRSM FAAD
Consultant Dermatologist and Honorary Senior Lecturer
The British Skin Foundation Spokesperson
London, Cambridge, Leicester and Bedford

http://www.alexandroff.org.uk
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