Melanoma stage 4 timeline

Hi 

diagnosed melanoma stage 4 last year from back mole removed  had neck dissection and lymph removal now been on immunotherapy 1 year .  Metastatic spread to lungs liver adrenal and bones which the immunotherapy is keeping stable but what happens next year when 2 year treatment is complete ? Anyone had any experience? What is life expectancy? Trying to remain positive but need to make some financial life choices in near future so looking for a bit insight ? Thanks 

  • Hi Madmeg001,

    I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis & I quite understand your questions but when it comes to life expectancy, not even the consultants can answer that easily. Your treatment question is also difficult to answer as some hospitals differ from others. Can I suggest that you accept my friend request so we can chat in more detail by private message and I can seek some guidance for you from Stage 4 patients that I know. Meanwhile, take a look at the Melanoma Focus charity website which has a lot of helpful information. Keep positive,

    Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

  • Hello Madmeg

    Ive had a radical neck dissection with parotid gland and lymph nodes removed. Albeit for SCC rather than melanoma. I have metastatic cancer to bones spine and lung. Currently on Cemiplimab immunotherapy and denosumab for bones. I too have stable cancer. My treatment ends in a few months as my 2 years will be up. There are no further options other than to get it privately at a cost of around £80k a year. Sell my house? My doctor says there is an enduring effect of up to 18 months after cessation. Further that as the body has been trained to recognise and target the cancer it is often kept at bay for a long time. With 2 patients on Pembro never returning. (Still living). If cancer does return and you ask for a likely length of life if it is less than 12 months you may be able to withdraw your entire pension tax free. I do worry about the future but understand that the NHS does not have limitless money and someone else will be given the chance for them too to have few years extra life.

    Ed