Melanoma
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. It forms in cells called melanin that make skin color. Melanoma may appear as a new mole, or in moles you already have. Melanoma can form in the skin, eyes, nose, or throat.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Informed consent
is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.
An IV
is a small tube placed in your vein that is used to give you medicine or liquids.
Medicines:
- Chemotherapy is medicine given to kill cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy is medicine given to help your immune system fight the cancer.
- Targeted therapy is medicine given to kill cancer cells without harming healthy tissue.
Tests:
- A CT, MRI, or PET scan may be used to see if the melanoma has spread. You may be given contrast liquid to help the melanoma show up better in pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell a healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.
- A sentinel node biopsy may be done to see if the melanoma has spread to lymph nodes close to the mole.
Treatment:
- Surgery is done to remove the melanoma and some of the tissue around it. Surgery may also be done if the cancer has spread into the lymph nodes or other parts of your body.
- Radiation therapy uses x-rays or gamma rays to treat cancer. Radiation kills cancer cells and may stop the cancer from spreading. It is also used to reduce symptoms, such as pain.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
RISKS:
Melanoma may come back, even after treatment. Melanoma may metastasize (spread) to other parts of your body. This can become life-threatening.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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