What should you know about invasive melanoma treatment?

Invasive melanoma has grown from the surface layer of skin into deeper tissue. A pathology report helps the team assess features such as depth, ulceration, and the edges of the removed tissue. Examination of nearby lymph nodes or scans may be considered when the melanoma has features suggesting a higher risk of spread. Treatment choices depend on the stage rather than the appearance of the spot alone.

Melanoma can spread to lymph nodes or distant organs, including the brain. New neurological symptoms in someone with melanoma need prompt medical assessment; a symptom does not by itself establish spread.

Surgery commonly removes the melanoma with a margin of surrounding skin. A sentinel lymph node biopsy may be offered in selected cases to look for melanoma cells in the first draining node. If disease has reached lymph nodes or other organs, the team may discuss immunotherapy or other systemic treatment. Your plan may involve a dermatologist, surgeon, pathologist, and oncology team.

Bring the pathology report and a list of medicines to appointments. Ask how the scar will be cared for, whether further tissue needs removal, and which symptoms or treatment effects should be reported. Follow-up after cancer treatment supports examination of the treated area, lymph nodes, and new skin changes.

Arrange a prompt dermatology review for a changing pigmented lesion, a spot that bleeds or does not heal, or a new lump near a previous melanoma site. Seek urgent care for severe breathlessness, sudden weakness, a new seizure, confusion, or a severe persistent headache. During treatment, promptly report fever, marked diarrhoea, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly worsening rash.

Ask: What is the melanoma stage and depth? Are the surgical margins clear? Is sentinel lymph node biopsy appropriate? Would imaging or immunotherapy help? How often should my skin and lymph nodes be checked?