Melanoma Treatments

Treatment

Once melanoma is found, tests are done to find out if the cancer has spread. Treatment depends on whether the cancer has spread.

Surgery

The melanoma and some healthy tissue around it will be removed. If a large area of tissue is removed, a skin graft may be done. Lymph nodes near the tumor may be removed, as well.

Chemotherapy

This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given in many forms. This includes pills, injections, and via a catheter.

Biological Therapy

Biological therapy involves substances made by the body to increase or restore the body's natural defenses against cancer. Examples include:

Interferon
Interleukin 2
Melanoma vaccines

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is the use of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. This is not a cure for melanoma. It is used in combination with other therapies.

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