Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, but also the least common. If not detected early, melanoma may spread to the surrounding lymph nodes or other organs. To treat melanoma, the affected skin needs to be surgically removed, along with a margin of normal skin surrounding the affected area. Tests, including blood tests, sampling of lymph glands, and CT or PET scans may also be performed to ensure that the cancer has not spread elsewhere. Even if the tests are negative, patients should be monitored for the next few years to confirm that the cancer has not returned or spread.
New medical therapies for melanoma are being continually trialed. We work with a Multidisciplinary team to review advanced cases and offer the latest treatment regimes and inclusion in clinical trials through the Oncology department at Christchurch Hospital.