Living with CLL and new complications

[Spirt]

Hello, I am new here. I came across this site when I was looking for information about CLL. I was diagnosed this time 10 years ago and My oncologist at my last visit, wanted me to see a dermatologist. So I did and was told I have precancerous cells on my skin. They froze them. I was told by my oncologist that I am at a very high risk of getting skin cancer. I am 59 years old, there are times I just don’t feel myself. I started swimming a year and a half ago, not only to help me get stronger. It has helped me mentally also. My question is has anyone been told about the skin cancer as a secondary cancer or has developed it? Thanks for listening.

[Susiecarer]

Hi Spirt

My hubby was diagnosed with CLL in January 2017. In May if this year he was diagnosed with skin cancer. One type was BCC and the other was Melanoma in situ. This is one of the secondary cancers you can get with CLL. He has also had bowel cancer which WAS NOT related to CLL this year. He was diagnosed in August with Evans Syndrome which is also related to CLL. They are all treatable. Dermatology nowadays seem to treat the affected areas on the day by either freezing or surgical procedure.

Hope this helps. Take care

Susiecarer

[migirlusa in reply to Susiecarer]

I had a squamous cell carcinoma removed from my arm the same time I was diagnosed with CLL. My dermatologist told me because of the CLL I now had a 200% chance of skin cancer. That may be a little high but I received the warning. I just had another spot frozen off last week. Just Keep a watch. Best of luck.

[AussieNeil Administrator]

Welcome Spirit.

You have been given good advice. Because CLL compromises our immune system, we are at a higher risk of a range of secondary cancers, including up to 10 times the risk of skin cancers. An annual skin check by a dermatologist is sometimes recommend for us for this reason.

Some of us have indeed had secondary skin cancers.

Neil

[Newdawn Administrator]

Yes I developed a malignant melanoma 18 months after my CLL dx Spirit. Unlike CLL, this requires swift and early attention so I’m pleased to hear your doctor has been so proactive in referring you to a Dermatologist.

These things can be dealt with successfully if caught early.

Our risk is much higher as Neil described so be vigilant and protect yourself from the sun.

Best wishes,

Newdawn

[Cammie]

As said above the risks are greater because of our compromised immune system.

I too had bcc taken away and have to watch my face due to actinic keratosis which flairs up regularly.

[virdieblue]

Yes- we are about 10 times more likely to get skin cancer than "normal" people. Use sunscreen always. I have a body check twice a year.

Virginia

[jaypax]

Hi. This is all good, sound advice. I've had a few bccs removed over the last few years and have skin checkups two or three times a year. We are much more vulnerable and if you enjoy the outdoor life get yourself covered up and use sunscreens - factor 50 or total block. And be aware that even on cloudy days those damaging rays can affect you. Best wishes.

[Loretto]

I have had CLL for 10 years, 68 years old, I have had a few minor BCCs frozen however I now draw them out myself with salve rather than go under the knife, so far ones biopsied as positive come back negative after the salve. I also use high doses of curcumin, vitamin C, selenium B3 and B12. My readings are just above normal range and now only visiting the hospital one a year instead of 6 months. My diet includes smoothies with Matcha tea, any greens I can pack in,, ginger, flax seeds and oil, coconut oil and water, any fruit on hand, and seeds. Also have bone broths with turmeric, cardomon, ginger and black pepper, I still work 40 to 50 hours a week. I don't think too much about it but just get on with life, try to be happy with life, relax and not stress, we eat mostly organic paleo type food, however I don't sweat the small stuff. I have just joined this community and wish everyone the best.