- In November 2022, two dermatologists on a train noticed an unusual spot on a stranger’s face.
- They approached the man, Chris Meffen, who later discovered the spot was early-stage melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer.
During a Christmas-themed train excursion in Texas, Dr. Chelsey Straight and her husband, Dr. Christopher Chu, both dermatologists, noticed a man with a suspicious spot on his face.
Dr. Straight discreetly observed the man and noticed an abnormal shape on his left cheek. After discussing it with Dr. Chu, they decided to approach the man at the end of the train ride. They were concerned that he might have undiagnosed melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.
The dermatologists address the man’s condition
Chris Meffen
At the end of the train ride, Dr. Straight approached the man, Chris Meffen, and asked if he had ever gotten the spot checked out. Meffen admitted that he hadn’t, but his wife had been urging him to do so.
Meffen had first noticed the mark in 2017 but had neglected to seek medical attention. When Straight inquired about the duration of the spot, Meffen initially estimated three years. However, his wife corrected him, indicating that it had been longer.
Dr. Straight, who had recently opened a dermatology clinic in Austin, Texas, offered to perform a biopsy on Meffen. An appointment was scheduled for two days later.
Diagnosis and treatment
During the appointment, Dr. Straight discussed the potential results of the biopsy, which included a diagnosis of melanoma. A few days later, Meffen received confirmation that he had early-stage melanoma, requiring surgical removal of the lesion.
Chris Meffen
Dr. Straight explained that Meffen’s melanoma was in situ, meaning it was confined to the top layer of the skin and did not require chemotherapy. Following the surgery, Meffen would need regular follow-up appointments and take precautions against sun exposure.
Meffen expressed relief upon receiving the diagnosis, as the biopsy had already removed 75% of the lesion. He underwent two additional appointments to remove the remaining portion.
Dr. Straight emphasized the importance of early detection and addressing health concerns promptly to prevent further complications.
Recovery and ongoing screenings
According to Dr. Straight, Meffen has been recovering well after the surgery. He has attended multiple follow-up appointments and planned to undergo free skin cancer screenings at Dr. Straight and Dr. Chu’s clinic.
Chris Meffen
Dr. Straight acknowledged that it’s common for people to delay addressing health concerns due to busy lifestyles. However, she stressed the importance of seeking timely medical attention and expressed gratitude that Meffen’s melanoma was diagnosed and treated before it could cause further harm.
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