Scare my dh has squamous cell carcinoma on his earlobe

[mumsnoangel]

Dh is having a weird scab removed from his earlobe on the 17th. To be honest I've worried about it for months and am pretty cross because it took him ages to see a doctor even though he has private health insurance. I suffer with health anxiety and worrying about his ear has given me sleepless nights. Years ago he had saliva gland cancer and I've never really got over the fear of it coming back. I don't think this issue is related but I'm frustrated he's been pretty negligent about his health and lies out in the sun with no sun cream. Rant over!! Anyway this scab looks like an ulcer really. It bleeds from time to time and I think he probably picks it without meaning to, so it's constantly irritated. I've read that scc is more serious on the ear as can spread more easily from there than other places. Need some positive stories to stop me panicking. Thanks!

Bump. Does anyone have experience of squamous cell carcinoma?

I couldn’t read and run. I don’t have experience personally but I know a friend who had it. She had it on her back and left it for well over a year. She had it removed and took a larger cut to ensure it was removed and all was fine. No further treatment just had to be extra careful in the sun and has to have a yearly check. (she pays for a check every three months tho tbh and has said she will continue up to 5 year mark for her own piece of mind). I know it can spread but also keep in mind it is uncommon to spread. It’s not usually a life threatening cancer. You have done the right thing and if further treatment is needed your DH will get the treatment he needs. I’m sorry I can’t be more reassuring but my fingers are crossed for your DH. For yourself health anxiety is awful, try relax and remind yourself it could of been the more serious form of skin cancer melanoma which has a much more of a chance of spreading. Please also try get off doctor google (I know it’s hard) as it will just fuel your anxiety levels. Have you got a close friend you can confind in who you can talk through it with? Also keep in mind it may not be cancer. It is always the first thing we jump to but Our bodies can grow some weird things and most tend to benign Xx

Holliej - thank you so much for your thoughtful reply. I know Dr Google is no friend! In some ways my dh's lack of concern is actually helpful as if he was panicking too it would be unbearable. I do feel though as if I have three children not two as he has to be cajoled to seek advice about any health issues, so I take on the worry for all. You are right it is almost certainly not melanoma so lots to be thankful for. I really appreciate your reply!