Hi,

Yes, they should be given the option for a SLNB to be done at the same time as the WLE. Perhaps it was mentioned and your relative has already discounted the procedure? Not every patient accepts it as it's not a treatment but a procedure to better stage the patient. The possible side effects are explained and that is why it's given as an option and not as a necessity. Those who don't agree to it are usually offered regular ultrasounds of the nodal area.

I'm afraid scans are not offered to Stage 2 (or 1) patients as the norm, only if they present with any other symptoms that may cause a concern. Even Stage 3 don't get scans unless they are on adjuvant drug treatment (to see if it's working). The reasoning is that the exposure to radiation from regular scans should be avoided. An MRI is only ever done if a CT scan has shown an area of concern. It's frustrating for the patient because scans are a good way of knowing if there is any spread, however the stress that regular scans cause in later stage patients sometimes outweigh the benefit. 

80% of Stage 2 patients survive melanoma after 5 years or more after diagnosis. These figures are only up to 2017 and the landscape of melanoma treatment has changed drastically since that time so I'm confident that future stats will be even better. 

I will send you a friend request so that we can chat further by private message if you wish. Good luck to your relative and please let us know how they get on,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)