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.
Contents
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.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right melanoma treatment depends on various factors including the cancer stage.
Explore your treatment options with Doctronic for the best melanoma care.Related Articles
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.
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