Exploring Therapies for Melanoma: What's New?
Exploring Therapies for Melanoma: What's New?
Advances in Treatment
Melanoma treatment has evolved with new therapies offering hope for better outcomes. Discover the latest advancements.
Contents
- Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Therapies
- Immunotherapy: A Game Changer
- Targeted Therapy
Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Therapies
Adjuvant therapy is given after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Neoadjuvant therapy, on the other hand, is administered before surgery to shrink tumors. Both approaches aim to improve survival rates and reduce recurrence.
Immunotherapy: A Game Changer
Immunotherapy harnesses the body's immune system to fight cancer. Drugs like checkpoint inhibitors have shown promising results in treating advanced melanoma. These treatments can potentially lead to long-term remission in some patients.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy involves drugs that attack specific genetic changes in melanoma cells. This approach can effectively halt cancer growth and spread. Personalized treatment plans based on genetic testing are becoming more common.
FAQs
What is adjuvant therapy?
It's treatment given after surgery to target remaining cancer cells.
How does immunotherapy work?
It boosts the immune system to combat cancer cells.
What is targeted therapy?
It focuses on specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.
Are these therapies effective?
Yes, they have improved survival rates in melanoma patients.
The Future of Treatment
Emerging therapies offer new hope for melanoma patients, changing the treatment landscape.
Additional References
- Cascinelli N. Margin of resection in the management of primary melanoma. Semin Surg Oncol 1998; 14:272.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.