What are the treatment options for Melanoma
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For informational purposes only
This answer was generated by AI grounded in NCCN guidelines and published medical literature. It is not medical advice. Always consult your oncologist or care team before making treatment decisions.
Sources & medical oversight
- Grounded in NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Melanoma — the same guidelines oncologists use.
- Developed under the medical oversight of OpenCancer’s physician-scientist team (Chris Apfel, MD/PhD/MBA, CMO · Kaumudi Bhawe, PhD, CSO).
- Last updated September 2, 2026. Informational only — not a substitute for your oncology team.
Treatment Options for Melanoma
According to the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Melanoma, your treatment depends mainly on your cancer stage and whether surgery can remove it all.
Main Treatment Approaches
Surgery
- Wide excision (removing the tumor plus surrounding healthy skin)
- Most common treatment for melanoma
- Often the only treatment needed for early-stage cases
Immunotherapy
- Medicines that help your immune system fight cancer cells
- Examples: nivolumab, pembrolizumab
- Used for advanced melanoma
Targeted Therapy
- Medicines that attack specific features of cancer cells
- Example: dabrafenib/trametinib (if you have a BRAF mutation)
- Personalized based on your tumor's characteristics
Radiation Therapy
- High-energy rays that kill cancer cells
- Used for advanced or hard-to-reach melanomas
T-VEC (Talimogene Laherparepvec)
- A special virus injected into melanoma spots
- Kills cancer cells while protecting healthy cells
Chemotherapy
- Cancer-fighting medicines
- Less commonly used for melanoma than other cancers
Supportive Care
- Helps manage side effects and symptoms
- Available alongside any treatment
Your specific treatment plan depends on your stage, tumor characteristics, and overall health. Your oncologist will recommend the best approach for YOUR situation.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.
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