July 1999 Treatment by stage Treatment of melanoma depends on the type of the disease, the stage of disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment may be considered because of its effectiveness in patients in past studies, or participation in a clinical trial may be considered. Surgery is currently the only standard treatment of melanoma. Clinical trials are designed to find better ways to treat cancer patients.
Clinical trials are ongoing in most parts of the country for most stages of melanoma.
Surgery to remove all of the tumor, including as much as 2 centimeters of the surrounding tissue. Skin grafting may be done to cover the wound. Surgery to remove all of the tumor, including as much as 2 centimeters of the surrounding tissue. Skin grafting may be done to cover the wound. Removal of nearby lymph nodes may also be performed.