Good evening,

I can't be much help in terms of specifically what you're going through but I just wanted to post to say I really hope it goes well for you, I've been under urgent referral for suspected head and neck cancer, I've had inflamed tonsils for months. I'm not so sure what to think any more , just had MRI yesterday. So I know exactly how you feel in terms of the waiting and not knowing, it's awful isn't it. I distract myself with different things as frequently as possible. Work, playing piano, watching funny tv series, etc. I wish you all the best, post an update to let me know how you get on x 

Hi,

I'm sorry you have this worry. Many people get referred to dermatology because GPs are not experts on dodgy moles. 75% of patients referred are given a clean bill of health - the mole is either benign or dysplastic (precancerous). The majority of those diagnosed with melanoma have been caught early and it's easily treated.

At the appointment they will examine the mole with a dermascope which will show any change in the cell structure. If the consultant thinks it needs removing to confirm if it's dodgy or not, they usually arrange it to be done at a later date by a Plastic Surgeon, as a day patient under local anaesthetic. On rare occasions they remove it at the first appointment but only if they have the time, staff and operating facilities available and it's easy to remove.

Try to distract yourself, don't fixate on it and don't Google as it only fuels anxiety. Good luck and please let us know how you get on.

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

Hi thought I would update on my results 

3 weeks after biopsy iv been told I have melanoma in situ I'm unsure what this generally means all I know is I have to have a further operation I'm at the dermatologist tomorrow morning to find out next steps 

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis and that I've only just seen your update. I'm sure that you will have had your appointment yesterday and hopefully everything was explained but if you have any questions just ask here and I will try and answer them.

Best wishes

Angie

Currently going through the same thing, unfortunately I have been very sun exposed and one of my moles has gone crusty and has darker patches. I went to my GP yesterday she said it’s measuring at 4mm and has put me on a 2 week referral pathway.

I regret every decision iv made to basque in the sun and use sun-beds now, lesson learnt it’s so scary!! 

i really hope your ok and I guess what your appointment now? Thinking of you