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Skin biopsy results delay

SusieS
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After seeing a Dermatology Consultant in December 2022, the surgeon said he suspected Melanoma.  I was referred for an urgent biopsy on a mole that had changed in shape, size and colour.  On the 9th January, I had approximately a quarter of the mole removed for biopsy.  I was told to expect an appointment within 4-6 weeks for results. I phoned the hospital today to see if I could make an appointment and was told the Consultant had no capacity to see me until mid to late March.

I've been keeping myself busy whilst waiting and have been absolutely fine but the thought of waiting possibly another 4-6  weeks has really thrown me. I'm now worried that if it is anything suspicious, it could be spreading.  

I wonder if anyone else has experienced a delay like this and how you coped with the extra wait.  Any advice would be much appreciated. 
Thank you. 

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    Hi Susie,

    I'm really sorry you are having this anxious wait and it's taking longer than anticipated. Sadly, most hospitals are taking anything from 6 to 12 weeks for results appointments. Hopefully the wait won't have a negative effect if the result is positive for melanoma. I'm assuming the consultant prefers to give results face to face, whether good or bad. The only thing I can suggest is that you ring again and say that the extended wait is causing you great anxiety and ask if the results (if clear) could be given over the telephone - hopefully this would cut down a little on the wait. They may not want to do that but you won't know unless you ask.

    Good luck and please let us know how you get on,

    Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

  • Offline in reply to AngieT

    Hi Angie,

    Thank you so much for taking the time to reply and for your suggestion.  Depending on stress levels, I will think about doing that if I don't hear anything about an appointment by the end of February. Today has been a mixture of anger, worry, frustration and disappointment.  Just hearing that the wait is not unusual  has helped, thanks.

    I will let you know how it goes.

    Susie

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