Further testing on mole. What does this mean?

I never thought I'd be writing asking for advice for something like this but here I go! I'm nineteen years d and had an excision biopsy on a suspicious looking mole for melanoma. I've waited four weeks for the results and my drs secretary rang me today telling me that the biopsy has been sent back to the hospital where it was first tested, for further testing. I'm just wondering what this means? And should I be concerned? Surely if there was nothing to worry about it wouldn't be sent back for further testing? Any advice would be amazing!

thankyou 

  • Hi,

    It's not unusual that a biopsy sample is tested two or three times (at a different hospital) for a second or third opinion. This happens when the cells in the tissue don't present as obviously cancerous or obviously benign. In these cases they need at least two opinions to ensure they make the correct decision as they don't want to tell someone they have cancer if they don't and they don't want to send someone away as 'clear' when they aren't. I know the extra waiting plays havoc with your stress levels but they need to reach the correct decision. Hang on in there & good luck. Please let us know how you get on,

    Angie (melanoma patient)