Our Multidisciplinary Approach to Care

Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA
The Saint John’s Health Center is located in Santa Monica, CA

Effective melanoma treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. This collaborative effort ensures that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs, optimizing outcomes and providing comprehensive care.

By integrating modern radiation therapy methods and a multidisciplinary approach, Saint John’s Health Center addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of their treatment journey. Our experience in melanoma, including the groundbreaking research and clinical trials conducted at the Saint John’s Cancer Institute, is a substantial benefit to our patients.

About Radiation and Melanoma

Radiation therapy is a pivotal treatment modality for melanoma, particularly when surgery is not feasible or when the cancer has recurred. This web page explores modern radiation therapy methods, including superficial radiotherapy, and discusses how radiation kills cancer cells, when it is recommended, potential side effects, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to care.

How Radiation Therapy Kills Cancer Cells

Radiation therapy disrupts cancer cell's ability to reproduce, whereas normal health y cancel can recover over time.
Radiation therapy disrupts cancer cell’s ability to reproduce, whereas normal health y cancel can recover over time.

Radiation therapy works by focusing high-energy particles or waves, such as X-rays, gamma rays, electron beams, or protons, to destroy or damage cancer cells, where treatment typically involves imaging systems to preceisly target the treatment area. Superficial radiation uses lower energy x-rays (photons) or electrons because treatment is applied directly to the skin.

X-rays create small breaks in the DNA inside the cancer cells, preventing cancer cells from growing and dividing, ultimately causing them to die. While nearby normal cells can also be affected, they typically recover and return to normal function.

 

When Radiation Therapy is Recommended?

Radiation therapy is recommended in various scenarios for melanoma patients. It can be used as adjuvant therapy after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence, particularly in cases of desmoplastic melanoma, which has a higher risk of coming back after surgery alone.

Radiation is also utilized for palliation to relieve symptoms in advanced melanoma, such as pain or bleeding caused by metastases. Additionally, it is considered for treating recurrence in lymph nodes after completion lymph node dissection.

Modern Methods of Radiation for Melanoma

Superficial Radiotherapy

Superficial Radiotherapy Treatment - Saint John's Cancer Institute
Superficial radiotherapy refers to treatment at or near the skin’s surface.

Superficial radiotherapy (SRT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-power X-rays to target skin-deep cancer cells. This method is particularly effective for non-melanoma skin cancers but can also be considered for certain melanoma cases.

SRT minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues and is often preferred for sensitive areas like the face, scalp, and ears.

Adjuvant Therapy After Lymph Node Dissection

Adjuvant radiation therapy is often recommended after lymph node dissection to lower the chance of melanoma recurrence in the lymph nodes. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with a high risk of nodal recurrence, helping to improve overall survival rates and reduce the likelihood of further metastasis.

Palliation Therapy

Palliative radiation therapy aims to improve the quality of life for patients with advanced melanoma by alleviating symptoms such as pain, nausea, and fatigue. This type of therapy does not cure cancer but helps manage symptoms and provides emotional support, making it an integral part of comprehensive cancer care.

Side Effects of Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy can cause side effects, which vary depending on the treatment area and dose. Common side effects include skin problems like redness and irritation, fatigue, hair loss in the treated area, and sore mouth or throat if the head or neck is targeted. While most side effects are temporary, some may persist or appear months to years after treatment. Learn more about the radiation treatment process and treatment technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At Saint John’s Health Center, we encourage you and your family to ask questions to gain a thorough understanding of the recommended treatment. Making informed decisions can help you feel more confident about your care.

What are the benefits of radiation therapy for my specific type of melanoma?

Understanding the benefits can help you estimate the effectiveness of the treatment for your particular melanoma subtype, such as desmoplastic melanoma, and how it fits into their overall treatment plan.

What are the potential side effects of radiation therapy?

Knowing the possible side effects allows you and your family to prepare for and manage and post-treatment concerns, ensuring you are planning for the near and long term.

How will radiation therapy be administered, and how long will each session take?

Knowing the duration of therapy or the number of sessions helps patients understand the logistics of their treatment, which can affect their daily schedule and lifestyle.

Will radiation therapy affect my daily activities or work?

Based on the extent of your care, it will be important to know how treatment might impact your ability to perform daily tasks or continue working, so you can plan accordingly.

What is the likelihood of my melanoma recurring after radiation therapy?

We can help you understand the chances of recurrence based on your type of melanoma and its progression so that you can make informed decisions. We aim to set realistic expectations and consider additional preventive measures or follow-up care.

How does superficial radiotherapy differ from other radiation methods?

While some patients are familiar with traditional radiotherapy methods, superficial radiation provides unique advantages as well as limitations. We offer a complete review of why a particular method is recommended for their case, which is based on statistical outcomes.

Are there any lifestyle changes I should make during radiation therapy?

For some patients, a nutritionist may be recommended who can provide guidance on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that can support your treatment and recovery.

The experts at Saint John’s Health Center and researchers of the Saint John’s Cancer Institute are ready to support you and help you navigate through this challenging time. Whether you are looking for an expert second opinion, a better understanding of your health situation, or access to personalized clinical trials, please reach out to us today. We are committed to providing you with the best possible care and outcomes.

If you have questions regarding the radiation treatment for melanoma, please call today or click here to schedule an appointment or for an expert second opinion.