I was diagnosed with eye melanoma nearly two years ago , i am constanty worrying in thst it will spread . I have 4 monthly checks and injections after my bracapherapy operation . What is the survival rate or chances of it spreading?
I'm sorry to read about your situation and appreciate this is a difficult time for you.
Many people worry about the cancer coming back and this is a very common feeling to go through. Maggie's has some information about about coping with uncertainty and the fear of recurrence on their website.
With eye ( uveal) melanoma, the risk of it spreading will depend on the size ( extent) of the cancer, the genetic features of the cancer cells, and how well the tumour responds to treatment.
We have some information on our website aboutsurvival statistics for eye cancer. It's important to bear in mind that statistics cannot say what will happen to an individual as cancer behaves differently in every person.
What's important to remember is that you are having regular checks as part of your follow up care. This gives your team the best chance of spotting any changes early, when they are most treatable. Many people live for years after brachytherapy without the cancer coming back.Do contact your team or specialist nurse if you have any concerns or develop new or persisting symptoms in between appointments.
I hope this is of some use. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
Can I just add the details of a support group for ocular melanoma patients, in case you weren't already of them. It's called Ocumel Homepage - Ocular Melanoma UK and they have a support helpline and an online patient support group if you think it might help.
Wishing you all the best,
Angie (Stage 3 superficial spreading melanoma since 2009)
