Basal cell skin cancer recurrence: anyone else had similar thing happen

[Rachelthepotter]

Hi. I’ve got myelofibrosis and I’ve been on ruxolitinib and epo and apart from some weight gain and chest pains I’m doing OK.

However I’d had basal cell skin cancer in the past ( living in Australia for 10 yrs) and its probably recurred. My dermatologist is in contact with the team at Guys who look after the MF, as she would normally use an immune stimulant called imiquimod applied topically. She isn’t sure of the interaction with rux. Anyone else had any experience with this. ?

I’d also had a squanous cell skin cancer on my shin excised years ago, but that seems to be quiet.

Thank you.

[Hidden]

Hi, I'm also on Rux for myelofibrosis. Earlier this year I had to have a course of radiotherapy for a squamous cell carcinoma on my nose - ouch! Still waiting to see if it's clear so fingers crossed. About 5 years ago (during PV years) I had a basal cell on my chest which I had to apply a cream to and it kind of burnt it away, I don't know if that's the same treatment you're asking about, but I was only on aspirin at the time. Sorry I'm not much help answering your question, but just wanted to let you know you're not alone battling the dreaded skin cancer, something we all need to be extra vigilant and careful with. Hope they get you sorted without too much discomfort. Take care.

[jillydabrat]

Sorry I can't answer your question. I do hope the medical team can come up with a successful regime to get rid of this curse. I am interested to see how many people have developed skin cancer whilst on treatment. I know of the risk but there are quite a few incidents reported on here..

[JSKly]

Hi Rachel

I've had and have basal and squamous over the years. I lived in New Zealand for 30 years so whether it is that sun or years of hydroxy or a combination I don't know and when I was on Ruxolitinib nothing was said to me.

[Inca]

Hi Rachel,I had a carcinoma on my face, it just looked like a red dry patch to me...a dermalog diagnosed it as cancerous...she said it was typical of Hydrea which I have taken for 8years. Now I must keep out of the sun always...have led an outdoor life but not a sun worship one.My surgery was excellent ,but I am aware that one side of face is a bit different to the other!!! Have to be monitored regularly for any recurrence on any other parts of me.....bit scary isn't it,hate having to wear huge sun hats just to walk dogs and see to my horses!!! Summers S W France are very hot and long, I have been warned winter sun is just as harmful.

[Inca]

Sorry,meant to add,Good Luck with your treatment, Best Wishes Sally

[Rachelthepotter in reply to Inca]

Thanks, Sally.

[kp27kathleen]

Hi there In the 4 yrs I have been on hydroxy I have had 8 or 9 skin cancers removed and many more that were pre cancer. I go to the derm every 3 months now and he suggests I ask the hemo to cut the dosage. I will do that this month but she always says "would you rather have a stroke?". My platelets are 440. I take 500 plus baby aspirin each day. My other big concern is the terrible fatigue.