Lost and confused - Swelling has been found on my right cheek but biopsies have been inconclusive as there were not enough markers. What are these markers?

It all started in 2022 I had growth on my forehead which turned out to be SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA. I had day surgery to get it removed. Which was not too bad. The healing process was slow compared with other minor operations I've had. It healed to certain extent but then it came back this time a lot bigger. So I had another appointment to get it removed again. It healed a bit better this time. But after a good few months it had come back again. Another operation where the surgeon took a lot more of the surrounding area  away as well as the SCC.

 Well I said that should be it. My good lady and I went on holiday for a week last May up to the highlands, changed the dressing twice everyday. All was going great about a month after that the pain started. I have never ever felt pain like it. The pain steadily got worse.

I got an appointment to see the oncologist after having a CT scan. The SCC had got into my skull. I therefore had radiotherapy at hospital in September last year. Everything went well my wound healed up really well.

I was at the nurse getting my B12 injection when she noticed I had slight swelling on my right cheek just level with the bottom of my ear. Got an ultrasound scan done in December and more since they finally got a solid biopsy. The ones done before that were inconclusive as there was markers there but not enough.

What are the markers? Why am I feeling lost confused. 

  • Hi Groot, and welcome to the forum.

    I'm so sorry to hear all that you have been through since you were first diagnosed with SCC 4 years ago, and that a new concern has appeared on your cheek. This must be a very trying time but hopefully the biopsy that's finally been successful will soon give you some much needed answers and peace of mind.

    Unfortunately I'm not sure what these markers are either Groot but if you give one of our cancer nurses a call they may be able to tell you more. They're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and they will do all they can to answer your questions and address any other concerns you may have at this time.

    Hopefully you will hear back from our members soon but in the meantime, we're sending you all our support Groot and we'll have our fingers crossed for a good outcome.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator