Superficial Melanoma

My consultant told me today my biopsy came back as superficial melanoma and I need further surgery. I’m not sure what superficial means? Wasn’t given a stage. I have an appointment with a plastic surgery next week. Does this mean it has been caught early? Thank you

Parents
  • Hello EmmieZ and thanks for your post,

    It is difficult to be too precise as I am not involved in your care but superficial may mean that the melanoma is confined to the epidermis. This is the top layer of skin. It is also described as melanoma in situ. The doctors need to make sure that there is a clear margin when they remove the melanoma. Do check with your consultant as they have all your information.

    You can read more about the staging here

    You may find it helpful to read through the various links before your next appointment so you can have a list of questions to ask your doctor.

    I do hope that this helps. If you would like to ring and chat this through with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to give us a call.

    Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

Reply
  • Hello EmmieZ and thanks for your post,

    It is difficult to be too precise as I am not involved in your care but superficial may mean that the melanoma is confined to the epidermis. This is the top layer of skin. It is also described as melanoma in situ. The doctors need to make sure that there is a clear margin when they remove the melanoma. Do check with your consultant as they have all your information.

    You can read more about the staging here

    You may find it helpful to read through the various links before your next appointment so you can have a list of questions to ask your doctor.

    I do hope that this helps. If you would like to ring and chat this through with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to give us a call.

    Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

Children
No Data