INFO & BLOG
About diagnosis, treatment and recovery
How does melanoma differ from other skin cancers?
Melanoma arises from melanocytes; it is less common than other skin cancers but tends to spread more, so early diagnosis and accurate staging matter.
What is dermoscopy and how does it assess the risk of a suspicious mole?
Dermoscopy is a high-resolution structural examination and mapping of suspicious moles; by showing the mole's architecture in detail it improves early detection.
Why and for which patients is sentinel lymph node biopsy performed?
For certain thickness and risk profiles, the first draining lymph node is targeted to accurately stage regional spread, avoiding unnecessary extensive lymph node surgery.
How does the BRAF/NRAS molecular test result change my treatment?
The molecular profile determines targeted therapy eligibility; in BRAF-mutation-positive patients BRAF/MEK inhibitors become an option, always chosen based on the test result.
What is the difference between immunotherapy and targeted therapy?
Immunotherapy activates the immune system with checkpoint inhibitors, while targeted therapy attacks mutation-positive cells with BRAF/MEK inhibitors. The board chooses based on the molecular profile.
How are the scar and reconstruction managed after wide excision?
Wide excision is performed with an oncologically safe margin; when needed, microsurgical reconstruction (graft/flap) preserves both function and appearance.
When is SRS (stereotactic radiosurgery) considered for brain metastases?
For selected local/regional control needs and brain metastases, stereotactic radiosurgery and focused radiotherapy with the TrueBeam LINAC become an option.
Why is PET-CT requested in the diagnosis of melanoma?
PET-CT is requested for whole-body staging to assess distant spread; its findings feed into the information the board uses to plan treatment.
Why is the treatment order decided in the council; surgery first or systemic therapy first?
The modalities are not standalone options; their order and combination are set by the multidisciplinary board based on stage, Breslow thickness, lymph node status and BRAF/NRAS profile.
How do the process and follow-up work for international patients?
International patients receive visa, transfer, accommodation and interpreter support; after treatment, care continues with regular follow-up and tele-oncology when needed.