Diagnosis and management of high-risk and metastatic melanoma

OBJECTIVES: To identify treatment modalities and corresponding nursing implications for the high-risk and metastatic melanoma patient. DATA SOURCES: Texbooks, research articles, and professional experience. CONCLUSIONS: Recent advances in the field of melanoma include identification of prognostic factors, refinement of surgical techniques, and identification of effective adjuvant therapy. Novel therapies are currently under investigation. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses play a vital role in the treatment of melanoma patients through education regarding their disease and treatment options, patient identification for clinical trials, and intensive monitoring and management for treatment-related side effects.