Melanoma

Melanoma: treatments, trials & survival

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Explore immunotherapy breakthroughs, targeted treatments, and clinical trials transforming outcomes.

New Cases (2024)
100,640
5-Yr Survival
94.0%
Annual Deaths
8,290
Trend
Increasing
See active trials

About Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Explore immunotherapy breakthroughs, targeted treatments, and clinical trials transforming outcomes.

According to the National Cancer Institute’s SEER database, an estimated 100,640 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in the United States in 2024, with approximately 8,290 deaths. The overall 5-year relative survival rate is 94.0%.

Source: NCI SEER Data: 1975–2022

Treatment options

Current treatment approaches for melanoma depend on the stage at diagnosis, tumor characteristics, and the patient’s overall health. The most common options include:

1
Surgery (Wide Excision)
2
Immunotherapy (Nivolumab, Ipilimumab)
3
Targeted Therapy (BRAF/MEK inhibitors)
4
Radiation Therapy
5
Chemotherapy

Treatment recommendations should always be discussed with a qualified oncologist. The options listed above are based on current clinical guidelines and may vary case by case.

Stages

Staging describes the extent of cancer in the body and is crucial for planning the most appropriate treatment:

Stage 0 (in situ) Stage I Stage II Stage III Stage IV

Known risk factors

Understanding risk factors can support prevention and early detection. Known risk factors for this cancer include:

UV exposure
Fair skin
Many moles
Family history
Weakened immune system
Previous melanoma

Not sure where to start?

A patient navigator familiar with melanoma can help you understand your options and connect you with top US hospitals. Free & confidential.

Active clinical trials

Clinical trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments not yet widely available. The trials below are sourced in real time from ClinicalTrials.gov:

Frequently asked questions

The 5-year relative survival rate for melanoma is 94%. When caught early (localized stage), the rate is 99.5%.
FDA-approved immunotherapies include nivolumab (Opdivo), pembrolizumab (Keytruda), and ipilimumab (Yervoy). Combination immunotherapy has shown high response rates for advanced melanoma.
About half of melanomas have BRAF mutations. BRAF inhibitors (vemurafenib, dabrafenib) combined with MEK inhibitors (trametinib, cobimetinib) target these mutations specifically.
Use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving size, shape or color. Regular skin checks are essential.
You’re not alone

Looking for melanoma treatment options?

A patient navigator can help you explore treatment pathways, find clinical trials near you, and connect with specialists who see melanoma every day. Free, confidential consultation.

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