There is always a risk of recurrence with melanoma unless you have melanoma in situ, which is considered cured once it has been removed.
Melanoma may recur in many different areas, but it’s commonly found in the soft tissues of the skinwhich might appear as a lump. Melanoma can also appear in other parts of the body besides the skin, and in organs like the lungs or the brain.
Read More Recurrence can depend on what stage you have, so there are various screening recommendations. Dr. Cecilia Larocca, a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, says if you’ve had early-stage melanoma you should have a skin exam every three to six months. Dr. Larocca also notes that you should report any symptoms, such as a headache, changes in vision, cough, fatigue, or weight loss. If you had late-stage melanoma, in addition to regular skin examsalso every three to six monthsyou may need additional tests. This includes imaging, such as a PET CT or chest CT scan. Sometimes, blood work is also necessary. Although additional tests may be needed, the skin exam is one of the most important tools in detecting melanoma recurrence. If you’re diligent about checking your skin and notice any changes, report it to your doctor right away. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can save your life.
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