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
Melanoma Surgery while taking Actemra and Prednisone - PMRGCAuk
Melanoma Surgery while taking Actemra and Prednisone
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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🙏🏼💞
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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.
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
You need to ask your surgeon. It’s best they know what you are doing.
Good luck Pamk1949. Thinking of you, let us know