Melanoma Treatment Options
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Treatment for melanoma depends on the stage, type and location of the disease. Tumor biomarker testing and genetic testing can provide additional clues about which treatments may work best for your cancer. For people with metastatic or advanced cancer, these additional tests are usually recommended.
Treatment may include a combination of surgery, radiation, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Chemotherapy is sometimes used of the cancer returns after these treatments. Clinical trials may be available for any stage of cancer.
It is estimated that about 10 percent of people diagnosed with melanoma will test positive for an inherited mutation. People with an inherited mutation in the genes below may have different treatment recommendations or options depending on their gene mutation.
Make sure that you receive a copy of your cancer test results, including your pathology report and your stage. Ask your doctor to explain your diagnosis, test results and treatment options in terms that you can understand. This will allow you to work with your doctor to choose the best treatment for you.
See below for more information on each of these melanoma treatment topics.
In the News
Article: Promising drug for cancer treatment begins clinical trials
Researchers at City of Hope are testing a new type of cancer treatment drug. When tested in animals and cells taken from human cancers, this new drug prevented the growth of many types of cancer....
Melanoma Treatment Options
Stages & Subtypes
Treatment for melanoma depends on the stage, location and type of melanoma. You can learn more in-depth information about how doctors determine the stage and type of your cancer.
Treatment Options
Surgery is the primary treatment for melanoma. Some people with melanoma may receive targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy or radiation. Read about these treatment options here.
Genetic & Biomarker Testing
Tumor biomarker testing and genetic testing can provide additional clues about which treatments may work best for your cancer.
Participate in Melanoma Treatment Research
Visit our partners at Aim at Melanoma for information about their research registry and other ways to advance melanoma research.