Maybe post-adjuvant-nivo progression to Stage IV? Please help

So sorry for what you are dealing with.  Unfortunately, there are many benign diagnoses (and cancers) that can cause nodules in the lung.  Of course, the fact that it has grown and your prior history of melanoma are very concerning.  I am a big believer in the importance of ctDNA testing and have undergone the Signatera test myself – though for slightly different reasons.  So, the fact that it was negative is very heartening though not completely definitive – as is the fact that CT’s and the brain MRI were negative.  One thing to remember about the Signatera test, if it was done the way mine was, is that it is looking for DNA that was found in your previous tumor or very likely renditions thereof.  That makes it very good when looking for bits and pieces specific to your prior tumor.  But it wouldn’t pick up something that wasn’t, in your case, melanoma.  Therefore, it cannot take the place of a biopsy.

I firmly believe that two heads are better than one.  Another perspective.  Another set of options.  That is never a bad thing.  However, I don’t know how much information you will attain until you have definitive biopsy results.  Not all lesions can be reached via bronch.  Sometimes a needle biopsy is required.  Sometimes a thoracotomy is required.  I know those sound very unfun, but I would push for getting a biopsy somehow.

After results are obtained, you will know a great deal more about where you stand and will be more likely to get better information from a consultation which I certainly encourage at that point!!!  Most would be happy to discuss your case with your onc and many are set up to do telehealth consultations as well as in-person appointments with patients.  Here is by no means a complete list of melanoma specialists I put together for folks:  https://chaoticallypreciselifeloveandmelanoma.blogspot.com/search?q=specialists

I wish you my very best and hope you find answers soon.  Ask more questions as you have the need.  As you already seem to know, this board is filled with lots of smart caring peeps.  Yours, celeste

PS As someone who has been living in melanoma world since 2003, long before current treatment options were available, I certainly understand your sense of being without anchor or point of reference as to where to head and plan for your future.  I wrote this in 2010, AFTER having radiation to a brain met and the right upper lobe of my lung removed having advanced to Stage IV melanoma, but BEFORE attaining access to a Phase 1 clinical trial of nivolumab later that year ~ https://chaoticallypreciselifeloveandmelanoma.blogspot.com/2010/09/looking-forward.html 

c

Dear OnJnAnT

As always, I agree w Celeste, she gives great advice. I guess to obtain the biopsy first (because the ctDNA test is suggesting no melanoma (I think) and yet melanoma is suspected. Then Dr. Lipson will give you options. I think at that time, when you have the information and the options, that would be a good time to get a second opinion – if it’s too confusing or if Dr. Lipson is not clear.

That said, I have twice been to Dr. Lipson (at Sibley in DC) for second opinions, and both times I have found him excellent. Explains really clearly, thorough. First time round I didnt take his advice not to start adjuvant ipi, in case i got side effects that might then rule me out for a trial. I went on ipi but had side effects so had to stop then progressed. Second time round we were looking at what to do on a tumour that was growing slowly thanks to pembro but not disappearing – I was about to do a third round of surgery but he voted for TVEC, so I took that back to my oncologist who said OK let’s give it a try – I was switched to Dr. Rapisuwon (and Dr Boisvert) at Washington Hospital Centre who were willing to give this a try – and it seems to have worked. So I have great respect for Dr. Lipson. I also know he is involved in leading clinical trials (see last ASCO) for some combo therapy.

In my case, my oncologist recommended Dr. Lipson give the second opinion. So, when you have the info and Dr. Lipsons option, I would ask Dr Lipson who he recommends for a second opinion. And go to that person. And maybe check one from the list Celeste gives you too.

I am just saying I have a very high regard for Dr. Lipson. You should still get a second (third) opinion if you are stuck or have an unclear decision. But he’s great! (And I need to thank him)

best wishes Mark

PS I am/was NRAS too.