In general, stage 1 is when melanoma extends beyond the epidermis (very outer layer of skin) into the thicker dermis layer of the skin and is no more than 2 mm thick. It may or may not be ulcerated (broken skin due to the cancer). In stage 1 melanoma, there has been no spread to the lymph tissues, lymph nodes, or body organs.
Stage 1 melanoma is divided into two subgroups:
Stage 1 melanoma is treated by removing the tumor surgically. Wide local excision, a minor surgery, usually cures local melanoma. This may be accompanied by a sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in some instances, but this is not recommended for all patients. Learn more about melanoma treatments.
With appropriate treatment, stage 1 melanoma is highly curable. There is low risk for recurrence or metastasis. For stage 1 melanoma, the melanoma-specific survival rate is ≥97% 5 years after the initial melanoma diagnosis.
After being treated for stage 1 melanoma, you should conduct monthly self exams of your skin and lymph nodes and have a regular, full-body skin exam performed by a trained dermatologist, based on recommendation of your clinical care team. You should also undergo a physical exam by your doctor every 6 to 12 months for the first 5 years, and then annually as needed. Imaging tests may be ordered as needed to monitor for recurrence.
If you've been recently diagnosed with melanoma, you are not alone. The Melanoma > Exchange is a free online melanoma treatment and research-focused discussion group and support community.
