Good afternoon my new warrior friends,
Almost a year ago I was diagnosed with melanoma on my right shin, and had a wide excision with sentinal lymph node biopsy – right groin. Diagnosis info is "superficial spreading melanoma, Breslow depth 1.2 mm, Clark level IV, mitotic rate 1, T2aN0M0". Following the surgery I was advised that the margins were clear and there was no sign of spreading to the lymph nodes (3 removed).
At my recent one year check up with the surgeon, we discussed a lump that I could feel where the SLNB had been performed. Because of my history he sent me for an ultrasound of my groin, and following these results he has now scheduled me for a biopsy with an interventional radiologist, but my appointment isn't until 4/1/19. As you all know too well, I'm fearing the worst and can't imagine my heart rate slowing any time in the next month (if ever again).
The narrative from my ultrasound reads as follows:
"In the right groin at the area of interest there is a heterogeneous nodule measuring 3.3 x 1.9 x 2.4 cm with central cystic components as well as increased color flow. Possibility of partially necrotic lymph node could be considered. CT could be obtained for further evaluation". (My doctor is skipping the CT and going right to biopsy)
Plucking words and phrases to Google leaves me thinking it can't be anything benign – does anyone have any experience with lymph node issues following surgery and/or know what I might expect?
Thank you for your guidance~
laurie
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