Post op treatment for melanoma

Good morning,

I feel a little confused! I had my first oncology appointment yesterday after having lymph node dissection surgery 10 weeks ago. I was diagnosed with melanoma earlier this year. My post surgery letter states that my BRAF mutation test was negative. I went to the appointment after doing lots of research expecting to talk about immunotherapy, however, I was totally confused when told targeted therapy with tablets would be my treatment. I’m confused. Could you please clarify for me whether targeted therapy is for a positive BRAF test or can be used for negative please?

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  • Hi Minky4 and thank you for posting,

    I am sorry to learn of your situation,

    Depending on the stage of the melanoma both targeted therapies and immunotherapies may be used for patients with the Braf mutation (BRAF positive). Those who do not have the BRAF mutation (BRAF negative) tend to be treated with immunotherapies. 

    It is good to see that you have an appointment to go back to the team to clarify things for you.

    I hope things become more clear for you soon. Please feel free to get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Jemma

  • Hi Jemma,

    thank you so much for getting back to me. I actually spent the day on the phone today clarifying everything.It turns out that I have a positive BRAF mutation. The clinic letter sent to me was an error and should have contained an amendment. I feel a little calmer and clearer now to go back tomorrow.

    Kind regards,

    Tracy 

  • I'm glad it was clarified. At least it was just a letter out and not a mistake in your notes. I hope your treatment leaves you cancer free x

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