Skin cancer
posted by smallsadie
30 August 2018

Waiting times

Last reply: 05 September 2018 16:47

My brother has recently being diagnosed with melanoma - detected in a gland in his groin. He has met with his consultant but is now waiting on a PET scan. He has private health insurance and I was wondering if anyone knew approximately how long he will be waiting??

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Comments

commented by Irish Cancer Society
05 September 2018

05 September 2018 16:47

Hi ,

I am sorry to read of your brother’s diagnosis of Melanoma. From the time that the diagnosis is made through the staging scans is a particularly distressing time for you all. The PET scan will give an accurate staging of the diseases from which then determine the best restatement for a successful outcome.

The length of time between the getting the biopsy result and the next set of tests required to complete the diagnosis is an agonising one for all involved , The oncology service recognise this and every effort is made to expedite these tests. The length of time can vary a little depending on the demand for the actual radiology appointment, but generally it tends to be a week to 10 days. The Oncology nurse in charge of your brother’s care is best placed to answer this question on timelines in that hospital.

Kind regards,

Cancer Nursline

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