'Patients with CLL are at higher risk of developing melanoma and other skin malignancies. The survival of patients with melanoma is worse, stage for stage, in patients with CLL than patients without. It is thought that early diagnosis of skin cancer is critical to improving survival in CLL patients.'
'To promote early diagnosis and education on skin cancer prevention, the Mayo Clinic CLL group has recommended that CLL patients be referred for full body skin evaluation within 6 months of diagnosis.'
The study concluded...
'Referrals for screening skin examinations at diagnosis in patients with CLL could have an immediate impact for this at-risk population.'
It would be nice if this were done for CLL patients routinely, here in the UK. I have lots of little coloured marks, spots and bumps on my skin, and I try to keep on eye on them to see if anything's changing, but I can't see everywhere and don't know precisely what the danger signs are. Maybe some clear explanations, with photos, of what the danger signs are, would be helpful for us (and our partners/carers).
In the past my husband has had 2 skin cancers, one very serious (penile) and another near his eye, these occurred years before his CLL diagnosis, could there be a link??
I understand CLL people are immune compromised, a healthy immune system Identifies cell damage (cancerous cells) and removes them. It is suggested that CLL people with faulty immune systems don't as easily identify these everyday Occurrences and are not as effective at removing them, causing a greater risk of a second cancer..
We need sunlight to naturally synthesise the Vitamin D hormone but also have to be aware of our increased propensity to develop skin cancers. My GP advises sufficient protection but not too much. Don't let yourself burn, wear wide brimmed hats. Cover up if you’re going to be in the sun for long periods. Use sun screen. Take special care if you are fair skinned. I am sure others have input.
There is a vitamin D connection but is this sun exposure related too?:
Here is another article written by Mayo, it emphasises our need to be vigilant I agree with sentiment above "what do we look for?". If you are concerned about your own skin lumps and bumps have your GP have a look and ask for a referral if you are concerned.
“Early detection and prompt aggressive treatment may reduce the risk of recurrence and metastasis of skin cancers in patients with CLL. Moreover, education of CLL patients about sun protection and early detection of cancer could reduce the rates of morbidity and death caused by skin cancer. Frequent follow-up with a low threshold for biopsy of new or growing lesions and aggressive treatment of precancerous and sun-damaged skin could also affect the outcomes in this special group of patients”
Skin Cancer in Patients With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Oluwakemi Onajin and Jerry D. Brewer, MD (MAYO CLINIC)
published in Clinical Advances in Hematology & Oncology Volume 10, Issue 9 September 2012
I was diagnosed in 2015, and never has the potential connection between melanoma and CLL been brought up by my oncologist...nor has there been a rec for a skin screening. I’m following this thread with high interest as lately I’ve had many many skin issues including mysterious red bumps, rampant skin tags, myriad brown spots, and insane intense itching. I will get a dermatologist referral ASAP to at least establish a baseline status. Unfortunately I’m a sun lover and that complicates everything. Otherwise feel great, with only a few periodic instances of deep fatigue.
It is good to get checked by a Dermatologist. Skin cancer is the leading second cancer for CLLer's. We are at increased risk for others but something about skin cancer and CLL . Was at a meeting at MDA in Houston and the topic of skin cancer came up. The things they recommended were to get checked every 6 months by a Dermatologist, limit your time in the Sun, try to avoid afternoon hours when the rays are the worst, put sunscreen on, and wear a hat. STAY STRONG J.R
Thank you, it’s on my immediate agenda to ask for a referral to a savvy dermatologist, hopefully one who has heard of CLL and a possible connection. I’ll get on the every 6 mos checkup schedule hopefully right away.
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