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Basal or squamous cell

Meefee
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Hi, long story over a long period of time. I'll try to keep it short. Had a weird leision on my thigh and saw the dr during covid and they gave me some cream. June 2023 went back as it ached and had grown/changed. Gp took a punch biopsy. December 2023 had a phone call from GP asking for further pictures (was the receptionist) and measurement. I enquired what the histology said and was told squamous cell carcinoma and the Gp is referring to dermatology but with christmas may take a few weeks. Waited into new year 2024 and nothing. Chased the referral with dermatology(receptionist again) and was told the area was removed by the punch biopsy (it wasnt completly- as i watched it being done) and that it has been regraded as basal Cell and the wait was long and would be in touch when I got to the top of the list. The area has very small little blemishes coming off it and aches sometimes. Still waiting wondering if this is normal - both the ache in the area that was said to be clear and not to have an actual Dr confirm. 

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    GP doing the biopsy seems unusual to me in the first part. If you're suffering an ache with further skin changes I'd be chasing again. I hope one of the nurses sees this because maybe they could advise on what the usual processes are and how you can move forward. Everyone I know who has had suspicious lesions have been referred to dermatology in the first instance and it's taken no longer than 2-3 months.

  • Offline in reply to Lyns21

    Ty for your response. Gp has been trained she said, and normal in my practice if she is on apparently speeds things up. The histology is what took months. Just confused with how I've had 2 diagnosis but none confirmed face to face with Dr and ongoing symptoms. 

  • Offline in reply to Meefee

    Hi Meefee

    The histology report would indicate whether the cancerous area was removed  as the margins (edge and base) of the biopsy sample would have been clear of DNA damaged tissue. The report would also have identified that it was BCC which you already know. You can ask for a copy of the letter that was sent to your GP and can request that you are copied in to receive all future letters.

    I have a long history of skin cancers, one biopsy was for a suspected melanoma, the biopsy took the entire area out, it was subsequently found to be consistent with a freckle, however should it have been a melanoma it would have been removed during the biopsy without a long wait for further treatment.

    The results are usually sent to you by letter and if there is no further action to be taken you probably will not have a further face to face appointment.

    Hope this gives you a bit of comfort.

    Ed

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