jetdoctor67

Back in Oct 2017 I had a small spot on my left ear that wouldn’t heal. After waiting four months finally went to the dermatologist and had biopsy which confirmed melanoma. Had the WLE & SNLB (negative) to remove the melanoma off my left ear which put me at stage 2b. I Also had the DecisionDX test performed that put me in a higher risk for 2b. Had a couple of suspicious spots removed over the last couple years but all came back benign. So far so good with no re-occurrence.

Mike,

You’re amazing. You have been through so much and to keep that positive attitude is a gift from God. I’m so happy you are finally pain free. God Bless.

Terry

Hello Mike,

I know we have never met or even talked, but I have followed your story and you never stop amazing me on your strength and courage. I’m praying for you especially and for your Doctors. I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Terry

I had the DX test done back in 2017 when I had melanoma (node negative) removed off my left ear 1.5mm. My oncologist said they still did not know what to do with the results and it did not change anything for me. Only make sure your insurance covers it first as it pricey at $8500.

Glad your surgery went well.  Gods Speed on your recovery.

Prayers for Mike and his family.

I had surgery on my left ear on the superior (posterior) crus of antihelix back in Oct 17 and my ear is still mostly numb.  I also had a SNLB on my neck below my ear which resulted in the lost of some motion on my left bottom lip however, I have regained some movement back over the past year.  I'm told it could take up to two years for complete recovery from the numbness and loss of movement.  Give it some time to hear and regenerate the nerves.

I called Castle and was told they do not bill patients.

My insurance has initially denied the claim and Castle is appealing.  I hope they have the same success.

Mine was 2a. I was diagnosed back in Sept 2017.  BTW did your insurance cover the test?

Just received my results from the DecisionDx as 2a last Friday.  My Doctor said he could perscribe a CT Scan or PET but said it would only be for baseline since my path stage is 2A.  I declined to set up the scans however currently I've been having second thoughts.  Nonetheless, I was basically told to do full body scans with a dermotologist every three months for the next couple of years.  BTW did your insurance cover the test?

Hello Roxanne218,

I was diagnosed back in Sept 2017 stage 1b.  Had SNLB and WLE on left ear and neck area.  Lymph nodes were negative so my doctor told me no other treatment was necessary.  I was worried that I may need some additional treatment or tests like a CT scan or chest X-ray at least for a baseline if I have a reoccurrence.  Anyway, I was able to get in to see oncologist Dr. Jason Luke at the University of Chicago and he said since my stage was 1b with no traces of melanoma in my lymph nodes there was really no other treatment I should do however he did suggest the DX test with a caviot being they do not yet know what to do with the results even if I tested positive.  He said perhaps a CT scan.  My insurance denied the clame and now Castle is appealing.  I was reassured that if they lose the appeal process, I will not be billed for the $8,500.00.

Hello – Not sure if Derick Dermatology provides a sliding scale but they've taken really good care of me.  Great staff and really friendly and professional.