Melanoma Surgery while taking Actemra and Prednisone

[Pamk1949]

Hello, I have GCA/PMR and currently on 2.5mg prednisone and Actemra every other week. I just found out I have to have a melanoma surgery, and a surgery called “lymph node biopsy” where they remove some lymph nodes to determine if cancer has spread. My question is: should I increase/decrease prednisone or Actemra for this? I’ll have two incisions for this, and wear machine that helps healing for a week? 🤨 I would be great full for your experiences and opinions

[Grammy80]

Hi Pam...I'm sorry you have to go through this; the mental worry sometimes trumps the physical. This is a question for the professional, in my opinion. Personally, the only time I have altered my pred and Actemra schedule was when doctors were dealing with infections in my body. The only invasive cancer surgery I've had was pre-GCA. My best to you🙏🏼💞

[Pamk1949 in reply to Grammy80]

Thank you Grammy80!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I'm sorry you have this to deal with - but the only people who can answer your questions are your medical/surgical team. Do let us know what transpires and I wish you the very best for the surgery.

[Pamk1949 in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you PMRpro. That makes sense. My rheumatologist just told me to skip 2 Actemra injections (one month) to avoid any infections and the surgeon said he wanted to give me prednisone on day of surgery. Im guessing that’s normal

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Pamk1949]

Yes you need steroid cover for adrenal function - and it is the anaesthetist who is in charge of that.

[SheffieldJane]

You need to ask your surgeon. It’s best they know what you are doing.

Good luck Pamk1949. Thinking of you, let us know

[Pamk1949 in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thank you!