What should you know about radiation for melanoma?

Melanoma care is planned from the tumour’s site, depth, spread and previous treatment. Surgery such as Surgical Excision, Skin Cancer Surgery or Tumour Removal Surgery is often considered for a removable primary or secondary tumour. Radiation may be directed at a site that cannot be removed safely, a tumour causing symptoms, or selected spread such as Brain Metastases. It may be used alone or alongside systemic treatment such as Immunotherapy. Staging tests, including Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy, help shape the plan.

Ask the oncology team what area will be treated, the purpose of radiation and how the plan relates to surgery or medicines. Tell them about previous radiation, implants, medicines, pregnancy possibility and existing skin problems. During treatment, protect the treated skin from friction, heat and unapproved creams. Fatigue and a local skin reaction can develop; the team can recommend suitable washing, moisturising and symptom relief. Keep appointments so changes can be assessed promptly.

Contact the treatment team for worsening redness, blistering, open skin, drainage, severe pain, fever or difficulty eating, drinking or moving the treated area. New neurological symptoms such as weakness, confusion, seizures, severe headache or vision change require urgent assessment, particularly when melanoma has spread near the brain. Do not wait for the next visit if symptoms are sudden or severe.

Why is radiation being considered for me? What area and goal does it have? How will it interact with surgery or Immunotherapy? Which skin products are allowed? What symptoms require an urgent call? How will follow-up assess the response?