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Initial Diagnosis
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Initial Diagnosis

› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Initial Diagnosis

  • Post
    • November 13, 2014 at 5:51 pm
    jennifer83
    Participant

      I just found out two days ago that a mole on my back came back as melanoma.  My derm had done a shave biopsy and said it came back .7 mm with a Clark's Level III or IV.  I'm confused on whether I should be very concerned, or if this seems to be a superficial case.  My general practioner told me that she saw the pathology report and that it said it was superficial and has not spread to the lymph nodes or vascular system.  I asked my derm if it's possible to determine that with only a shave biopsy?  He said no.  I'm so confused!  

      I go in on Monday to consult with a general surgeon who will be removing more tissue.  I'd love to hear what anyone has to say about this initial diagnosis.  I've been following this site since I heard the news and you all are so well versed and supportive.  

       

       

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    • Replies
        • November 13, 2014 at 6:37 pm
        Emcjones1
        Participant

          Sorry to hear about your path report. Your derm is correct it is not possible to know that passed on the shave, but that said your GP was passing her assessment based on statistics. See the surgeon, preferably one with melanoma experience and go from there as to your next steps. Let us know how things turn out and what the surgeon recommends.

          good luck

          • November 13, 2014 at 6:37 pm
          Emcjones1
          Participant

            Sorry to hear about your path report. Your derm is correct it is not possible to know that passed on the shave, but that said your GP was passing her assessment based on statistics. See the surgeon, preferably one with melanoma experience and go from there as to your next steps. Let us know how things turn out and what the surgeon recommends.

            good luck

            • November 13, 2014 at 6:37 pm
            Emcjones1
            Participant

              Sorry to hear about your path report. Your derm is correct it is not possible to know that passed on the shave, but that said your GP was passing her assessment based on statistics. See the surgeon, preferably one with melanoma experience and go from there as to your next steps. Let us know how things turn out and what the surgeon recommends.

              good luck

              • November 14, 2014 at 2:14 pm
              Tim–MRF
              Guest
                Clark’s level isn’t used much any more. The thickness is less than 1 mm, which is good. Sounds like you caught it very early, which is good.

                Tim–MMRF

                • November 14, 2014 at 2:14 pm
                Tim–MRF
                Guest
                  Clark’s level isn’t used much any more. The thickness is less than 1 mm, which is good. Sounds like you caught it very early, which is good.

                  Tim–MMRF

                  • November 14, 2014 at 2:14 pm
                  Tim–MRF
                  Guest
                    Clark’s level isn’t used much any more. The thickness is less than 1 mm, which is good. Sounds like you caught it very early, which is good.

                    Tim–MMRF

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