DHinAZ

I delevopled lymphedema about 6 months after having only 1 node removed for a SLNB.  I exercise several times a week, early 30s, thin, eat well.  I was led to believe it wouldn’t happen prior to my surgery.  

I was diagnosed stage 1B last year when I was 17 weeks pregnant.  I safely had a WLE and SLNB biopsy at 19 weeks.  They test the placenta when you deliver to make sure the melanoma didn’t cross (unlikely it did).

As of April 2018 my oncologist at UCLA said we could pregnant again whenever we choose.  Basically, don’t change my life based on the diagnosis (not supported by research).  I am still worried though…

Hi, I am going though a very similar situation at 19 weeks pregnant.  My slides went to 3 different labs and had FISH testing before it was confirmed.  This process took several weeks and I had trouble getting information until the dx was confirmed by the final lab.  They all agreed that pregnancy made it challenging to diagnose.  

What I have learned…I would ask them which lab the are sending to and what additional tests they are requesting.  Make sure it is a dermatopathology lab with a lot of melanoma expertise (major melanoma center) to get an answer.  Get the labs contact information and    follow-up on shipping.  The place where you are having WLE/SLNB will likely want your slides too.  I recently had a WLE and SLNB under local anesthesia and everything went well with the procedure.  The oncologists, anedthesiologists, and perinatologists all consulted and assured me the baby would be fine.  

I hope all goes well for you and you have great results! 

Hi, I am also in the same position right now.  I was diganosed at 17 weeks with at least 1.4mm clarks level IV and I am exploring treatment options.  I have been to two different melanoma centers to meet with specialists and get their recommendations.  The current plan is to proceed with a sentinel node biopsy (groin) and a WLE under general anesthesia.  They also want me to get a MRI.  Did any of you do this under local anesthesia instead?  I am meeting with a high risk OBGYN next week to review the case.  What type of follow-up did you have after pregnancy?  This is an incredibly stressful situation.