Melanoma Treatment: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
If you've recently been diagnosed with melanoma or are researching options for a loved one, it's crucial to understand the available melanoma treatment options. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer but also one of the most treatable when detected early. With recent medical advances, survival rates have significantly improved, offering hope and recovery for thousands.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that starts in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in your skin. It’s more dangerous than basal or squamous cell carcinoma because it spreads more rapidly to other parts of the body, including internal organs.
It often appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole, particularly in areas exposed to the sun, but it can also develop on parts of the body that rarely see sunlight.
Types of Melanoma
Understanding the type of melanoma helps determine the most effective treatment approach:
- Superficial Spreading Melanoma: Most common and usually spreads on the surface before going deeper.
- Nodular Melanoma: Grows faster and vertically into the skin layers.
- Lentigo Maligna Melanoma: Often found in older adults on sun-damaged skin.
- Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: Rare, occurs on soles, palms, or under nails—more common in people of colour.
How Is Melanoma Diagnosed?
Melanoma is diagnosed through a biopsy. If melanoma is confirmed, doctors may also recommend:
- Blood tests (LDH levels)
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- CT, PET, or MRI scans to check for metastasis
Stages of Melanoma and What They Mean
Treatment options vary depending on the stage:
- Stage 0: Confined to the top layer of skin (in situ).
- Stage I & II: Localised but growing deeper.
- Stage III: Spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: Spread to distant organs like lungs or liver.
Melanoma Treatment Options
Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly used treatments in 2025:
1. Surgery
Primary treatment for early-stage melanoma. The cancerous area and some surrounding skin are removed.
- Outpatient procedure for Stage 0–II
- Lymph node removal may be done for Stage III
2. Immunotherapy
Uses the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells. Common immunotherapy drugs include:
- Checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab)
- Interleukin-2 (used in advanced cases)
These treatments can significantly extend survival in advanced melanoma patients.
3. Targeted Therapy
For patients with specific gene mutations like BRAF. Common drugs include:
- Dabrafenib + Trametinib
- Vemurafenib
This personalised approach increases treatment success and reduces side effects.
4. Radiation Therapy
Used when surgery isn’t possible or to relieve symptoms in advanced melanoma.
5. Chemotherapy
Now less common due to newer targeted options but still used in some resistant cases.
Real-Life Success Story
Jason, 41, from Florida, was diagnosed with Stage III melanoma in 2022. After surgical excision and immunotherapy with nivolumab, his cancer is now in remission. With regular skin checks and a clean lifestyle, he’s living a healthy, active life today.
Post-Treatment Monitoring
After successful treatment, follow-up is essential:
- Skin checks every 3–6 months
- Scans to detect recurrence (especially in Stage III or IV)
- Blood tests and dermatology appointments
Melanoma Survival Rates
Survival rates vary by stage:
- Stage 0–I: 98–100%
- Stage II: 80–90%
- Stage III: 50–65%
- Stage IV: Around 30–40% with modern treatments
These figures are improving every year thanks to advancements in immunotherapy and early detection.
Read more on celebrities who survived skin cancer or causes of skin cancer you should know.
Preventing Melanoma Recurrence
Post-treatment prevention strategies include:
- Daily sunscreen use (SPF 30+)
- Wearing protective clothing and hats
- Avoiding tanning beds completely
- Regular mole self-exams
Apps like SkinVision or MoleScope can help you monitor moles and detect changes.
FAQs
Q: Is melanoma curable?
A: Yes, especially when caught early. Even advanced stages now have promising treatments.
Q: How long does treatment take?
A: Surgery may take weeks for recovery. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy may last months or longer, depending on the stage.
Q: Are the side effects severe?
A: Some treatments cause fatigue, rash, or immune-related symptoms, but many are manageable with medical guidance.
Q: Can melanoma return after treatment?
A: Yes, especially in higher stages. That’s why regular follow-up and skin checks are essential.
Final Thoughts
Melanoma treatment has come a long way in the past decade. Early detection, surgical advancements, immunotherapy, and targeted drugs now offer excellent survival chances. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey or supporting someone through theirs, remember—knowledge, timely action, and consistent care make all the difference.
Also explore top skin cancer specialists and coping with emotional impact after a diagnosis.