4 Steps to Take If Skin Cancer Runs in Your Family
Having a relative diagnosed with skin cancer like melanoma can naturally be concerning. Read on to learn more about how that affects your risk and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
Caring for Yourself After Your Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
For people with certain cancers — mainly breast and melanoma — an initial determination may not be the final step in getting a complete diagnosis. Frequently, a sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed to determine whether it has spread.
As an experienced complex general surgical oncologist in private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses state-of-the-art skills and procedures to help people with breast and skin cancer as well as soft tissue sarcomas. That includes performing sentinel lymph node biopsies. He also works on clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute, which allows him to stay up-to-date on the latest findings and techniques for battling cancer.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is conducted after a cancer diagnosis has been made. It determines if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs. The procedure helps stage the cancer to create an appropriate treatment plan.
To perform the biopsy, Dr. Fischer injects a special tracer substance near the tumor and then uses a device to find the lymph nodes that would be the first lymph nodes cancer cells would go to if they spread. Then, they are removed through a small incision and evaluated by a pathologist to see if they contain cancer cells.
Post-procedure
After the procedure, the incision may feel tender and sore. There may also be tingling and numbness as the nerves heal. These sensations may come and go and last anywhere from a week to several months or more.
As the healing continues, scar tissue may develop along the incision. It will be hard but will soften over time.
Recovery
Take over-the-counter pain medications to help with soreness. In rare cases, prescription pain medication may be prescribed.
Showering is permissible 24 hours after the procedure. Returning to most regular activities is usually fine the day following the biopsy, though strenuous exercise, like jogging and lifting weights, should first be cleared by our team.
For a time, there may be pain or stiffness in the arm or leg of the affected side where the lymph nodes were removed. However, it should be discussed with our team if it continues past the six-week mark.
Getting a cancer diagnosis and having a sentinel lymph node biopsy can be stressful and cause many emotions. Be sure to practice self-care and seek professional mental health help if needed.
Cancer can be overwhelming, but being proactive is the first step. Dr. Fischer can help. Click to book an appointment or call the office and speak to our friendly staff today at 310-807-2688.
You Might Also Enjoy...
What's This Red, Scaly Patch on My Skin?
Multiple conditions, including cancer, can cause red, scaly patches on the skin. Read on to learn more about the possible causes and what you need to know.
Should I Be Worried About a New Mole?
While not all new moles that appear in adulthood are cancerous, it is still important to get them checked by a medical professional. Read on to learn more.
Why Is Merkel Cell Carcinoma So Aggressive?
Merkel cell carcinoma is the second deadliest type of skin cancer because it grows and spreads quickly and often returns after treatment. Read on to learn its symptoms, risk factors, and more.
I'm Relieved to Learn the Lump In My Breast is a Fibroadenoma, But What Next?
Not all breast lumps are cancer. In fact, most are benign and include diagnoses such as fibroadenomas. Read on to learn what these masses are and how they are treated.
What's Involved in Melanoma Removal?
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. However, it can be removed by wide local excision. This minor surgery can often provide a cure when the cancer is found early. Read on to learn more.