Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Left untreated, it can metastasize to other parts of the body and can be fatal. As such, it has different treatments which may include chemotherapy and other more intensive options.
A new treatment for unresectable (= unable to be removed by surgery) or metastatic melanoma has been approved by the FDA called nivolumab (brand name, OPDIVO). This drug is a major advancement in melanoma treatment for a few reasons including:
*Effective against melanomas that did not respond to ipilimumab therapy (another type of melanoma treatment)
*Well tolerated, with fewer adverse effects than ipilimumab
*May be effective for other types of cancer
We are always happy for any advancement in the treatment of melanoma! This upcoming Monday, May 4, is Melanoma Monday. Designed to raise awareness of melanoma, this annual date serves to remind everyone to protect their skin and know the facts about this deadly skin cancer. Join us all month as well as we focus on skin cancer (May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month).
Read more: “Therapy offers hope for advanced melanoma” from the March 2015 issue of the Dermatology Times.
