Malignant Melanoma Removal in Southeast Michigan
Malignant Melanoma is the most serious variety of skin cancer and requires specialized, aggressive surgical treatment.
Interesting fact: Our Melanoma and Skin Cancer Tumor Board meets weekly to review, discuss and plan treatment for melanoma and other skin cancer patients. Specialists from more than 6 disciplines participate in our weekly conference to afford patients the most up-to-date and hopeful treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the distinct types of melanomas?
- Superficial Spreading Melanoma
- Nodular Melanoma
- Acral Lentiginous Melanoma
- Lentigo Maligna Melanoma
Once Melanoma is diagnosed, how is the stage determined?
The TNM system is used, factoring:
- T for tumor – our dermatopathologist studies the tumor under the microscope determines depth and other features.
- N for lymph nodes – the presence or absence of tumor spread to lymph nodes is determined by physical examination and sometimes radiological imaging and surgical biopsy.
- M is for metastasis – the presence or absence of metastasis (spread to other organs) is determined by radiological imaging. Patients with deep melanomas are at risk for metastasis and usually undergo PET CT scans and brain MRI to look for possible metastasis.
What other skin cancers require advanced, multidisciplinary care?
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma
- Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma
How are melanoma and these other skin cancers treated?
- Wide Local Excision
- Lymph node removal
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormonal therapy
Additional Reading:
- https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/melanoma-treatment-pdq
- https://www.uptodate.com/contents/melanoma-treatment-localized-melanoma-beyond-the-basics
- https://patient.info/cancer/skin-cancer-types/melanoma-skin-cancer
- https://medlineplus.gov/melanoma.html
- https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma/
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/merkel-cell-carcinoma/
Schedule a Malignant Melanoma Consultation Today
For those dealing with malignant melanoma, expert care and a coordinated approach can make all the difference. SEM Surgical ensures that you will receive the latest and most effective treatment strategies. Contact us at (248) 985-8060 to schedule a consultation at our general surgery clinic in Royal Oak, MI and take the first step toward comprehensive care.
