Q: What is melanoma?
A: As with other cancers, melanoma is a condition where abnormal cells of the skin grow out of control and are unable to function normally.

Q: What causes melanoma?
A: It is believed that melanoma is primarily caused by too much unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from natural sunlight as well as from tanning booths and sun lamps. Other possible causes include gene mutation, heredity and immune system deficiencies.

Q: How is melanoma found?
A: The most important warning sign of melanoma is a new or changing skin growth. The ABCDE (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Elevation) system is a practical and effective way to recognize melanoma so it can be diagnosed and treated in its earliest, most curable stage.

Q: What are my chances of surviving melanoma?
A: According to the American Cancer Society, localized melanoma (cancer that has not spread beyond the skin) has a five-year survival rate of 98 percent. About 83% of melanomas are diagnosed at a localized stage.

Q: Why should I be treated for melanoma at the Melanoma Center?
A: Treating and studying melanoma is what we do. In fact, we’re affiliated with the USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, one of only six National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in California. Our physicians are faculty members of the renowned Keck School of Medicine and many have been recognized as some of the Best Doctors in America.

Q: What are the most common treatments for melanoma?
A: For early-stage melanoma, the most common treatment is surgery, which generally can be performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia. Treatment options for later-stage melanoma include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Promising new treatments that are currently being studied in clinical trials also may be an option for some patients with advanced melanoma. Our multidisciplinary team approach means that our medical, surgical and radiation cancer specialists are available in one place, bringing their combined expertise to your plan of care.