Contents
What Are the Treatment Options for Melanoma?
Published: Aug 08, 2024
Melanoma treatment varies depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer. Discover the options available.
Surgical Interventions
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for melanoma, especially when caught early. It involves removing the cancerous tissue and some surrounding healthy skin to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated. Sentinel lymph node biopsy might also be performed to check for spread.
Advanced Therapies
For more advanced stages, therapies like immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy may be used. These treatments work by boosting the body's immune response or targeting specific cancer cell abnormalities.
Role of Radiation
Radiation therapy is sometimes used to treat melanoma, particularly if it has spread to other parts of the body. It involves using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Surgical removal of the tumor is the primary treatment.
Immunotherapy boosts the immune system to fight cancer cells.
Radiation is used when melanoma has spread to other areas.
Targeted therapy attacks specific cancer cell characteristics.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right melanoma treatment depends on various factors including the cancer stage.
References
- Breslow A. Thickness, cross-sectional areas and depth of invasion in the prognosis of cutaneous melanoma. Ann Surg 1970; 172:902.
- McGovern VJ, Mihm MC Jr, Bailly C, et al. The classification of malignant melanoma and its histologic reporting. Cancer 1973; 32:1446.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?