Early detection remains essential for melanoma treatment because the malignant tumor can spread rapidly. Doctors have a better chance at success with thin, localized melanomas, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Surgical removal is necessary. Advanced cases of the disease that spread beyond the skin are more difficult to treat, but the cure rate is continuing to rise, thanks to the development of newer drugs. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Identification
Melanomas may appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, but can develop anywhere on the body. Regular self-examination with confirmation by a dermatologist is the first step in treatment if necessary. The ABCD method of detection is recommended, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Asymmetry is when half of the growth is different from the other half. Borders of the lesion have irregular edges. Colors vary within the area and can have shades of brown, tan, black, white, red or blue. Diameter of the growth is about the size of a pencil eraser.
Surgery
The dermatologist takes a biopsy of the growth and sends it to the lab to determine if it is melanoma. Sometimes, if the melanoma is thin, the biopsy and surgical removal can remove the entire cancer. During the surgical excision, which can be done in the dermatologist's office, some surrounding tissue is removed in case cancer cells have begun to roam. The surgical technique often eliminates the cancer, the Mayo Clinic says. Nearby lymph nodes, which transport substances to the bloodstream, may have to be removed if the cancer has spread. The drug interferon, which boosts the immune system, may be used following surgery for these patients, the NIH states.
Considerations
Melanoma treatment is harder when the melanoma spreads beyond the skin and into other tissues or organs. The disease is usually not curable at this stage, according to the NIH. The treatment aims at shrinking the tumor and relieving pain. Surgical removal of the melanoma may provide relief of cancer symptoms for years in some cases, the Mayo Clinic says.
Potential
Various drugs are available for melanoma treatment of cancers that have spread beyond the skin. Chemotherapy helps destroy cancer cells and is often used on cancers that have returned or spread, according to the NIH. Chemotherapy may be resistant to some forms of melanoma but can relieve symptoms, the Mayo Clinic says. Radiation treatment kills cancer cells and also helps relieve pain and discomfort. Immunotherapy is used to strengthen the immune system to help the body fight cancer.
Theories/Speculation
Experimental vaccines and gene therapy to attack melanoma cells hold promise for treatment, the Skin Cancer Foundation says. Patients with advanced cases of melanoma may consider participating in clinical trials to study new medications.
