Does targeted therapy treat melanoma?

Melanoma cells can carry molecular changes that help them grow. A targeted medicine is selected for a matching change and aims to interrupt signals involved in tumour growth. It is not suitable for every melanoma, and treatment decisions depend on the cancer's stage, location, prior treatment, overall health, and test results. Targeted therapy may be used alone or as part of a wider treatment plan.

A specialist may arrange testing of melanoma tissue and explain what the result means for treatment choices. Take the medicine exactly as prescribed and keep scheduled reviews. Report new or troublesome symptoms early; the team may adjust timing, provide supportive treatment, or reconsider the plan. Do not start supplements or stop therapy without discussing it with your oncology team.

Contact the treatment team promptly for a new severe rash, blistering or peeling skin, persistent diarrhoea, marked weakness, fever, breathing difficulty, chest pain, yellowing of the skin, or reduced urine. Emergency symptoms such as severe breathing trouble, confusion, fainting, or sudden weakness need urgent help.

Ask whether your melanoma has a change that targeted therapy can address, what the treatment aims to do, how it will be monitored, and which symptoms should trigger a call. Ask how it fits with surgery, immunotherapy, or other options.