Excisional Biopsy

[Twinny]

Hi, I'm still looking for more answers.  I had an excisional biopsy done 5 days ago and am still awaiting results.  The first results from the "shave biopsy" stated superficial melanoma, thin, .49 mm thickness.

What are the chances the report from the excisional biopsy could be a lot worse?  Do they do the excisional biopsy as a precaution?

I'm falling apart and can't even take care of my kids.  The waiting is killing me.  Everyone is so optimistic except me.  Please advise.  Thank you.

[Twinny]

Thanks so much for taking the time to reply.  I'm so scared it's going to be in my lymph nodes.  I had the excision biopsy done the next day so no chance of more growth.  I was concerned too about the second set of results.  Could they be a lot worse than the first once they dug out more?  Like I said, everyone in that office is optimistic except of course me!

[camiktw]

Hi Twinny,

I can really sympathize with your anxiety. I've been through it as well, and it is awful. It can be hard to not think of the worst, especially when you've got kids (as I do too).

That said, while I'm not a doctor but a research scientist, you've got little reason to worry. 0.49mm is definitely the right time to catch melanoma. You've probably read the stats but at that depth you're looking at something like >98% cure rate. And if you're worried about that other 2% or so, well, not only is it unlikely, but it's by no means a hopeless 2%.

Did your shave biopsy say what type of melanoma? And how much time elapsed between the shave and the excision? Unless you're talking months, I'd expect the growth was insignificant. And if you are talking months, you'd likely still be in the >97% cure range.

Hope this helps...I'm sure right now you need reassurance and that ultimately you won't feel 100% secure until you get the results, but really, in all likelihood you'll be fine.

-Kevin

[Dr_Aparna]

Hi,
A skin sample is examined in a biopsy to make a diagnosis of melanoma. The biopsy procedure chosen depends on the site and size of the affected area.
Excisional or incisional biopsy:
This type of biopsy is often used when a wider or deeper portion of the skin is needed. Using a scalpel (surgical knife), a full thickness of skin is removed for further examination, and the wound is sutured (with surgical thread).
When the entire tumor is removed, it is called excisional biopsy technique. If only a portion of the tumor is removed, it is called incisional biopsy technique.
Excisional biopsy is often the method usually preferred when melanoma is suspected.
REF:http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/uvahealth/adult_skin/staging.cfm.
Hoping for the best on your behalf. God bless.