How Do I Know My Cancer is Gone?
Melanoma
The risk of recurrence is a great concern to a patient who has had melanoma. And for those who had stage one, the prognosis is good. Dr. Anna Pavlick, Professor of Medicine and Dermatology at NYU Perlmutter Cancer Center says for those patients there’s a 90 percent chance you’re going to be fine after treatment–so extensive screening or radiation is not necessary.
But she adds “We do know that every once in a while, there is that melanoma cell that might get out of that lymph node and go hide somewhere in the body.” So you will see your dermatologist, oncologist and surgeon regularly, and also undergo imaging to monitor for any signs of recurrence.
If your disease spread to the lymph nodes, Dr. Pavlick says there’s a 50/50 chance of recurrence. Regular checkups will be even more important.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
The risk of recurrence is a great concern to a patient who has had melanoma. And for those who had stage one, the prognosis is good. Dr. Anna Pavlick, Professor of Medicine and Dermatology at NYU Perlmutter Cancer Center says for those patients there’s a 90 percent chance you’re going to be fine after treatment–so extensive screening or radiation is not necessary.
But she adds “We do know that every once in a while, there is that melanoma cell that might get out of that lymph node and go hide somewhere in the body.” So you will see your dermatologist, oncologist and surgeon regularly, and also undergo imaging to monitor for any signs of recurrence.
If your disease spread to the lymph nodes, Dr. Pavlick says there’s a 50/50 chance of recurrence. Regular checkups will be even more important.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Keeping an eye on your body is an important part of moving on after a melanoma diagnosis and treatment.
Living With Cancer: After Treatment
Keeping an eye on your body is an important part of moving on after a melanoma diagnosis and treatment.