Metastatic melanoma
What is metastatic melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in cells called melanocytes. When it spreads beyond nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body, it’s called metastatic melanoma, or stage IV melanoma. The most common places it spreads include the lungs, liver, bones, and brain.
While stage IV melanoma is a serious condition, newer therapies, like immunotherapy and targeted treatments, are helping more people live longer and, in some cases, achieve long-term remission.
At the Tara Miller Melanoma Center, part of Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center, specialists work together to develop a treatment plan based on the unique features of your cancer. Our melanoma and skin cancer care team uses advanced testing and offers clinical trials to help match you with the most effective options for your specific type of melanoma.
Signs of metastatic melanoma
Metastatic melanoma can cause different symptoms depending on where the cancer has spread. Some people may not notice symptoms at first, especially if the disease is found before a primary tumor is identified.
Symptoms may include:
- Swollen or painful lymph nodes
- Feeling tired
- Unexplained weight loss or lack of appetite
- Trouble breathing or a cough that doesn’t go away
- Bone pain
- Headaches or seizures
How melanoma develops and spreads
Metastatic melanoma begins as melanoma of the skin. Like most skin cancers, it’s usually caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This damage often comes from the sun or tanning beds and triggers gene mutations in your skin cells. Over time, these cancer cells can travel through the blood or lymph system to other parts of the body.
How we diagnose melanoma that has spread
To diagnose metastatic melanoma, your care team starts with a thorough skin and physical exam. If a suspicious area is found, a skin biopsy is used to confirm melanoma. Imaging and lab tests help determine whether it has spread and where it’s located in the body. In some cases, genetic testing of the tumor is recommended to look for specific changes that can guide treatment.
Metastatic melanoma treatment
Our recommended treatment for people with metastatic melanoma depends on multiple factors, including your age and overall health, the locations and number of metastases, how fast the disease is spreading, and your goals for treatment. In some cases, melanoma surgery may be used to remove tumors.
Advancing melanoma care through research
Metastatic melanoma can be challenging to treat, and no two cases are exactly alike. At Penn Medicine’s Tara Miller Melanoma Center, your care is guided by a team that uses the latest research to inform treatment decisions.
Our researchers have helped advance immunotherapy and other targeted treatments that use the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. As a leader in cell and gene therapy, Penn Medicine offers newer treatments like tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy and continues to explore additional options for melanoma. These efforts, along with access to clinical trials, give you more treatment options and help bring promising therapies into care as quickly and safely as possible.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.
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Patient stories
Proton therapy for skin cancer: Chuck's story
Penn Medicine cured my cancer, and I’m living a wonderful, healthy life, appreciating every day I have with my family.