My first Pet scan in mid August after starting Nivo in May showed low-grade FDG update in the left axilla where I had a CLND with six nodes having some melanoma. This was "significantly decreasted" from my initial scan where the melanoma was detected. No other FDG uptake noted. They suspected it was from surgery but could not rule out some malignancy. My onc decided to do another Pet in November just to make sure. After 14 treatments of Nivo, my Pet scan this week showed even less intense FDG activity and the activity occupies a smaller area. The explanation was "compatible with evolving/resolving postoperative change. Finding will be monitored on follow-up". So my understanding of this is that the surgery caused this "cloudy" area BUT we will monitor this in future scans. Why is it that there is always a qualifier? The good news is still no other FDG update noted. I will continue on with NIVO treatments every two weeks (my choice) with 9 remaining for a total of 24. So far the only issue has been a lichenoid planus rash which is getting worse. The onc was surprised how much it had spread. I get some minor itching but I can tolerate it. I had some very minor rash before I started Nivo but the Nivo really caused it to flare up big time. No other scans were scheduled and I see the onc in February. As a stage "3C -er", it make you wonder if all of the melanoma surgically removed or is the Nivo doing it's job. Either way, I'll take it.
.
