Treatment Basics • S urgery is the main treatment for early-stage disease.
• M ay include wide excision or in some cases, partial finger/toe removal. • L ymph node biopsy (a procedure that checks nearby lymph nodes for signs of melanoma) may be done to check for spread.
Advanced Treatment Options • Immunotherapy (e.g., nivolumab, pembrolizumab) is often used after or before surgery. • T argeted therapy may be an option if BRAF or KIT genetic mutations are found. • R adiation may help in select cases. • A cral melanoma has unique genetic changes and may respond differently than UV-related melanoma. • T umor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy is a newer treatment option that may be available for some patients.
Clinical Trials & Next Steps • N o treatment guidelines exist specifically for acral melanoma — care should be personalized. • S earch current acral melanoma trials.
What You Can Do • C heck your hands, feet and nails regularly. • S peak up about any new, changing or slow- to-heal spots. • G et it checked — early detection saves lives!
For more information visit us at melanoma.org/acral-melanoma/
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UPDATED FEBRUARY 2026
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