STAGE IV What do I need to know?
Diagnosis Stage IV melanoma, or metastatic melanoma, means that melanoma cells have spread to other organs in the body, or areas far from the original site of the tumor. The lungs, liver and brain are areas in the body where melanoma tends to spread most often.
Second Opinions Some people worry that doctors will be offended if they ask for a second opinion. However, most doctors welcome a second opinion and many health insurance companies will even pay for them. A second opinion may provide you with more information and, perhaps, a greater sense of control.
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
> Do you have a lot of experience treating melanoma? > How will you determine where the melanoma has spread? > Should I get a second opinion? > Several FDA-approved treatments for Stage IV melanoma now exist —
which do you recommend I start with? > Where will my treatment be done? > What are the common side effects of my treatment? > What is “Plan B” if “Plan A” doesn’t work?
> Should I consider any clinical trials? > What type of follow-up will I need?
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