What kind of treatment will I need?
Where does skin cancer spread to first?
Normally, the first place a melanoma tumor metastasizes to is the lymph nodes, by literally draining melanoma cells into the lymphatic fluid, which carries the melanoma cells through the lymphatic channels to the nearest lymph node basin.
Can melanoma spread to bone cancer?
Bone is a common site of melanoma metastatic spread, but usually occurs in patients who already have widespread metastases; thus, it is a late site of metastasis. In most clinical series, bone metastases from malignant melanoma are less frequent than liver or brain metastases, ranging from 11 to 17% 23.
Where is skin cancer most likely to spread to?
The most common places melanoma spreads to are the:
- lungs.
- liver.
- bones.
- brain.
- stomach, or abdomen.
Can basal cell carcinoma spread to bone?
Basal cell carcinomas rarely spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. Instead, they invade and slowly destroy surrounding tissues. When basal cell carcinomas grow near the eyes, ears, mouth, bone, or brain, the consequences of spread can be serious and can lead to death.
Can you have melanoma for years and not know?
How long can you have melanoma and not know it? It depends on the type of melanoma. For example, nodular melanoma grows rapidly over a matter of weeks, while a radial melanoma can slowly spread over the span of a decade. Like a cavity, a melanoma may grow for years before producing any significant symptoms.
Do you feel ill with melanoma?
General symptoms
hard or swollen lymph nodes. hard lump on your skin. unexplained pain. feeling very tired or unwell.
When does melanoma spread to bones?
Bone is a common site of melanoma metastatic spread, but usually occurs in patients who already have widespread metastases; thus, it is a late site of metastasis. In most clinical series, bone metastases from malignant melanoma are less frequent than liver or brain metastases, ranging from 11 to 17% 23.
How long can you live when cancer spreads to bones?
The authors note that most people live for 12–33 months after a diagnosis of metastatic cancer in the bones.
Can you have stage 4 melanoma and not know it?
When stage 4 melanoma is diagnosed after a scan, there may be no symptoms at all, and it can be difficult to believe the cancer has spread. However, people with stage 4 melanoma may have a very wide range of symptoms. People who have melanoma diagnosed in the brain are told not to drive.
Do you feel ill with skin cancer?
You can feel well and still have skin cancer
They don’t feel ill. The only difference they notice is the suspicious-looking spot. That spot doesn’t have to itch, bleed, or feel painful. Although, skin cancer sometimes does.
How fast does skin cancer spread?
Melanoma can grow very quickly. It can become life-threatening in as little as six weeks and, if untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma can appear on skin not normally exposed to the sun. Nodular melanoma is a highly dangerous form of melanoma that looks different from common melanomas.