I am BRCA negative. My primary tumor grew like crazy during 5 rounds of TVec. TVec did shrink the small satellite tumors. Primary tumor (13mm) was removed but left deep margins. Had 30 rounds of high power radiation. Now it’s a wait and see….. doctors are saying any future tumors would be treated with radiation (as long as it’s a different sight or TVec shots.
July 2
If your BRCA positive you can receive Tafinlar and Mekinist. I did six years ago.i have stage 4 melanoma I took it for over 3 years. I had a brain metastasis, I’m still surviving.
July 2
That's a really important question, and it's one that others in similar situations have wondered about too. While immunotherapy is a common first choice for stage 3 melanoma, it's not the only path forward when it's not an option.
For stage 3C melanoma, there are alternative treatments that may be considered:
- Targeted Show Full Answer
That's a really important question, and it's one that others in similar situations have wondered about too. While immunotherapy is a common first choice for stage 3 melanoma, it's not the only path forward when it's not an option.
For stage 3C melanoma, there are alternative treatments that may be considered:
- Targeted therapy – If your melanoma has a BRAF gene mutation (found in about 50% of melanomas), BRAF inhibitors combined with MEK inhibitors can help stop cancer cell growth
- Radiation therapy – High-dose X-rays can be used to target remaining cancer cells
- T-VEC (Imlygic) – A virus injected directly into tumors, FDA-approved for stages 3B and 3C melanoma that can't be fully removed with surgery
- Surgery – Removing the tumor and nearby lymph nodes remains a key part of stage 3 treatment
- Clinical trials – These can provide access to newer, cutting-edge treatments that may not yet be widely available The most important step is having an open conversation with your oncologist about which alternatives best fit your specific situation. Every case is unique, and your team can help map out the right combination of treatments for you.
June 29
Join
Your Privacy Choices
