Overview
Melanoma begins in the melanocytes, the cells that make melanin which is the pigment that determines your natural skin color. Treatment for initial melanoma usually includes surgery. If it returns, melanoma can be more difficult to treat. Currently, the best type of treatment for melanoma that has returned or spread is participation in a clinical trial.
SCCA has a wide variety of trials for melanoma patients, including vaccines, immune cell treatments, and other substances that stimulate the immune system. Our physicians are working toward being able to stage and characterize melanoma down to the molecular level. Defining the changes in the genetic material that cause different types of melanoma will help to identify patients whose melanoma may be more successfully treated with certain more customized regimens.
Aggressive treatment and research can only take place at advanced medical facilities like Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, where the physicians treating patients have access to the most advanced treatments available.
Newly Diagnosed
Understanding the importance of choosing the right treatment center for your disease.Melanoma Facts
Learn about the risk factors and symptoms of melanoma, how it is diagnosed and how its stages are determined.Our Doctors
Our doctors are members of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and UW Medicine and are committed to providing the best possible care for melanoma patients who come to SCCA for treatment.Treatment Options
Regardless of the stage of your illness, the unsurpassed expertise of our physicians makes SCCA the ideal treatment center for melanoma.Participate in a Study
As a world-class treatment center, SCCA provides patients with the best and most current therapies available. Clinical studies bring promising new treatments to patients faster. And participating in a study gives patients at least the best, current treatment, as well as the satisfaction that they are helping others with melanoma.Patient Support & Housing
Because treatment for melanoma isn't always easy, special support for patients is essential. SCCA has several programs, classes, and services to assist patients and their families.Resources
The more you know about your disease, the more empowered you'll feel. This list of reputable sources about melanoma makes gathering information easy.News
Cancer treatment is always improving as researchers learn more about its causes and means to prevent it. Read the latest news about research findings and medical breakthroughs here.
Map & Directions
Driving directions to SCCA on South Lake Union.
Driving directions to SCCA on South Lake Union.
Patient Guide to Clinical Studies
Find out more about clinical studies, what they are, and how to participate in them.