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Stage 1b Diagnosis
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Stage 1b Diagnosis

› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Stage 1b Diagnosis

  • Post
    • May 2, 2019 at 5:44 pm
    ashleynb
    Participant

      I was first diagnosed last March at age 30 with stabe 1b Melanoma on my upper/mid back. Since then I have had 4 other spots removed. 1 of which was Melanoma stage 1b, the others were just severely dysplastic. I still have my 3 month checks with the dermatologist, but at what point would a SLNB be needed? My dermatologist doesnt feel like its necessary since both spots were only stage 1b. When I asked how do you know that there isnt Melanoma anywhere else the response was "you dont. just keep coming for your skin checks every 3 months." Anyone else had experience with multiple stage 1 spots? While I am SO thankful they were caught early, it still causes a lot of anxiety with the unknown!

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        • May 3, 2019 at 12:53 pm
        regwash
        Participant

          Hi Ashley! While I am even newer to all this than you are, I was recently diagnosed with stage 1b (and I am also 30) and have tried to amass as much info as possible. I just had my WLE and SLNB this week. 

          it is my understanding that the most recent studies have found SLNB becomes beneficial after the lesion is found to be of .80 thickness  without ulceration OR thinner than that with ulceration.

          Did you ever have a WLE/SLNB for your original lesion? Or a WLE for the second 1b they found? What was the thickness on the 2 lesions? I believe 1b is .80 mm – 1 mm. 

          • May 6, 2019 at 12:07 pm
          Bubbles
          Participant

            "Janner" a woman of great fortitude, melanoma wisdom, and common sense has dealt with many many melanoma primaries…never advancing further (nor having a SLNB if I recall properly) because she kept up with monitoring her skin and removing things when needed.  Use the search bubble and read her posts.  I wish you my best.  Celeste

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