Treatment for Skin Cancer

The best way to treat a melanoma is with complete excision of the lesion.  If the melanoma has spread to the lymph nodes it is tested for cancer cells.  If cells are found the lymph nodes will be removed and additional treatment required.  After resection of the lymph nodes the patient will undergo treatment using interferon.  Chemotherapy medications may also be used.  For those suffering from Lentigo maligna excision is the first step to cure the patient.  The option of following up with a topical cream that serves to enhance the immune system may be initiated at this point.  Radiation treatments are also used to prevent recurrence where the melanoma was removed.  Vaccines, gene therapy and experimental drugs are all currently being investigated.