Chances of basal cell returning

wendy24
wendy24 Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Skin Cancer #1
Hi, I'm only 24 and had a basal cell carcinoma removed last september and it looks like it my be recurring again in the same spot above the scarring from my last operation.

The thing is I had the mark on my back from the age of 14 and it was being treated for exzema. My father was diaganosed with skin cancer at the age of 48 and when he was 55 (last year), he died from a tumour in his neck which spread to his neck. I keep thinking that the same thing will happen to me, as he kept getting the skin cancer back each time he got it removed.

I dont know for sure if it is the same thing as it hasn't been confirmed by my dermatolgist, I haven't been to see him yet as they are on annual leave. Im very anxious about the whole thing and hoping it isn't what i think it is, but it looks exactly like the last(and I have a gut feeling like I did when I got my first results)

Has anybody had similar experiences when they were my age? I would like to hear from people if they have please.

Is it just going to keep recurring? I was told when i had it removed that that was it gone for good, how wrong were they.

Comments

  • AuthorUnknown
    AuthorUnknown Member Posts: 1,537 Member
    #2
    Hello,

    You may want to contact the American Cancer Society's National Cancer Information Center. Cancer Information Specialists can assist you with your questions and can be reached 24 hours a day. They can be reached at 1-800-227-2345 or by clicking on the "Contact ACS" link at the top of the page.

    Take care and be well,

    Dana
    CSN Dana
  • RayC2
    RayC2 Member Posts: 1
    #3
    Wendy, what is your current status? I will respond, if needed, after the update.

    I have been dealing with basal cell, squamous cell and metastatic squamous cell for many years. I see a dermatologist every 3 months. On each visit I am thoroughly examined, mostly from the belt line up, scalp too. The doctor freezes some spots, nips off other abnormalities and takes biopsy samples of others.

    The samples are sent to the lab for cell identification. Any positive test result is then dealt with right away. That means the spot is removed. My doctor (and I) watch any site that has been treated for signs of recurrence. Rarely does this occur, but it can and does.

    I hope you have been treated and expect you have. Get yourself educated with regard to symptoms of skin cancers.In light of your father's history of cancer with metastasis, you need to be all the more vigilant. Talk to your dermatologist and study available material until you reach a comfort level. Do a self examination on a regular basis. No big deal, just have a good look after a shower every once in a while. Have your partner, whomever, check your backside carefully, too.

    Your doctor may tell you that regular visits to his office for exams will be sufficient. If that is the case, fine, but, I still suggest you pay attention to any changes in your skin. Move forward with concerns you feel strongly about.

    Expect your doctor to take you seriously. Be your own advocate, don't be poo poo'ed, or intimidated. Get answers early and you will be just fine.

    I am still alive and living a normal life after many years of fighting cancer. I was told to get my affairs in order 8 years ago after squamous cell metastasus to my lungs. Somehow, the cancer is at bay and I am still functioning, with shortness of breath the only real impairmen at this time. Nothing is absolute, I guess.

    Let us know your current state.

    Ray

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