Melanoma Treatment: Options, Diagnosis, and Prevention

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of cancer that begins in melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigment. It can appear on normal skin or develop from an existing mole. Melanoma is less common than other skin cancers but can spread more rapidly if not found early. Doctors evaluate suspicious spots using the ABCDE criteria (asymmetry, border, color, diameter, evolving) alongside clinical examination and medical history to determine whether a biopsy is needed.

How is skin melanoma diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically begins with a clinical skin exam and documentation of any mole changes. If a lesion looks suspicious, a dermatologist performs a biopsy—removing part or all of the lesion—for histopathological analysis. Pathology reports describe factors such as Breslow thickness and ulceration that help stage the tumor. Additional imaging or sentinel lymph node biopsy may be used for staging in thicker or more advanced tumors to check for regional spread before planning systemic therapy.

Treatment options for melanoma cancer

Treatment depends on the stage and location of the tumor. For early-stage melanoma, wide local excision with a margin of healthy tissue is standard. Sentinel lymph node biopsy helps determine whether cancer has spread to nearby nodes. For advanced or metastatic melanoma, systemic therapies form the backbone of treatment: immunotherapy (immune checkpoint inhibitors) can stimulate the body’s immune response against cancer cells; targeted therapies can block specific mutations, such as BRAF V600 alterations, when present. Radiation and traditional chemotherapy are used selectively, often as adjuncts. Multidisciplinary care—surgeons, dermatologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists—ensures treatment is tailored to the individual.

When is surgery used for a suspicious mole?

Surgery is the primary treatment for most suspicious moles that turn out to be melanoma. Excisional biopsy or wide local excision removes the lesion with a margin to reduce local recurrence. If the pathology shows deeper invasion, sentinel lymph node biopsy or further surgical management may be recommended. Reconstructive techniques may be needed depending on the site and size of the excision. Surgical decisions consider tumor depth, location, patient health, and patient preferences, and are often coordinated with other treatment modalities.

How sunburn and prevention affect melanoma risk

Intermittent intense sun exposure that causes sunburn, especially in childhood, is a recognized risk factor for melanoma. Protective measures—regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding tanning beds—reduce ultraviolet exposure and help lower risk. People with numerous or atypical moles should have regular skin checks by a clinician and perform self-exams to monitor for changes. Education about sun safety and early detection remains a key component of melanoma prevention strategies.

Conclusion

Effective management of melanoma relies on early detection, accurate staging, and a treatment plan tailored to disease extent and patient preferences. Surgical removal remains the cornerstone for localized disease, while immunotherapy and targeted therapies have expanded options for advanced cases. Preventive measures to reduce sunburn and ongoing mole surveillance are important for lowering risk and enabling earlier diagnosis. Regular follow-up with healthcare professionals supports monitoring for recurrence and addressing long-term health needs.