Melanoma has recurred - what does this mean?

[exitstrategyideas]

A family member had melanoma five years ago (Stage 1 I think) and was having yearly check ups - all clear, until recently when I cyst was investigated (in a different part of the body) and found to be melanoma. What does this mean? Google (and my existing knowledge) tells me this means it is now Stage 4 / advanced. Can anyone offer experience or insight?

They need to speak to their doctor. It depends if they think it is linked to the first one or not. It could be another primary (a 'new' cancer) that isn't linked to the old one or it could be metastatic. Only the consultant with information from the pathologist can make that call.