Animation - Diagnosing Melanoma

This animation describes the tests and procedures doctors use to diagnose melanoma. It explains skin examination, skin biopsy methods (punch biopsy, excisional biopsy) lymph node biopsy methods (fine needle aspiration biopsy, sentinel lymph node biopsy, excisional lymph node biopsy), and imaging tests (MRI, CT scan, PET scan, ultrasound). This animation also provides an overview of how melanoma is staged (how far the cancer has spread). Knowing the stage helps doctors decide how to best treat your melanoma and predict your prognosis, or outlook.

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This educational activity has been developed by the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), and Mechanisms in Medicine Inc.

This activity is supported by independent educational grants from Bristol-Myers Squibb, Foundation Medicine, Genentech, Iovance Biotherapeutics, Merck, Natera, and Novartis.

Bristol-Myers Squibb
Foundation Medicine
Genentech
Iovance
Merk
Natera
Novartis

This website is part of the Animated Patient™ series developed by Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., to provide highly visual formats of learning for patients to improve their understanding, make informed decisions, and partner with their healthcare professionals for optimal outcomes.