Sorry you have a need to be here, Mark. But first and foremost – ain’t nothin for sure in melanoma. Yes, it seems as though you have a large primary lesion. However, you don’t know your stage until you know. Sentinel node biopsy and scans will tell the tale. Melanoma is nothing if unpredictable!
AIM at melanoma has a very good break down of melanoma staging that you may find helpful. Here is info on Stage III – Stage III melanoma Here is a link to info on Stage IV – Stage IV melanoma
However, here are some posts that address some of what you are asking about:
Here is something I wrote for folks (mostly Stage III) looking at adjuvant care: State of the science for adjuvant care
Finally, this primer, updated this year, on melanoma treatment generally may be helpful: Current Melanoma Treatments
When looking at melanoma data (or any data really) it is important to be sure you are comparing apples to apples. Outcome data for advanced melanoma patients is not at all the same as it is for Stage I patients or even those who are Stage III. But, the bottom line is this – there is hope and knowledge is power.
Feel free to use the search bubble on my blog if you like for more info. Currently, I am LIVING post Stage IIIB melanoma diagnosis in 2003 and Stage IV melanoma in 2010 (with brain and lung mets) and 2 1/2 year phase 1 nivolumab trial with last dose in June 2013 – NED for melanoma since 2010!
I hope these links help you. Will keep fingers and toes crossed that you are determined to have the lowest disease burden possible. Take good care and ask more questions as you have the need. There are many smart, caring melanoma peeps on this forum. I wish you my best. Celeste
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