Radiation Therapy for Melanoma

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Radiation therapy is often given to people with melanoma:

  • After surgery to decrease the odds of the cancer returning
  • If a person is unable to undergo surgery, for example if their health does not allow it or if the melanoma is in a hard-to-reach place
  • To prevent or relieve symptoms if the cancer has spread to multiple parts of the body, especially the brain or bones

Radiation therapy is painless and non-invasive and each treatment lasts only minutes. Different types of radiation therapy are used for different situations and your provider will determine which is best for you. Radiation therapy can also be called radiotherapy.

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Radiosurgery

Radiosurgery is an advanced form of highly focused, high-dose radiotherapy for melanoma that can kill tumors in fewer treatments than conventional radiation treatment — typically one to five sessions rather than conventional course of radiation, which includes daily sessions for several weeks. Radiosurgery has a greater than 95% chance of killing small tumors.

There are several other names for this type of treatment, including:

  • Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
  • Stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR)
  • CyberKnife or Gamma Knife, which are brand names

Gamma Knife

Gamma Knife is specifically designed for treating tumors in the brain. It is not a knife or scalpel in the usual sense of the word (neither is CyberKnife), and it doesn’t require opening the skull. Instead, it uses precisely focused beams of radiation. Patients are usually treated in one session.

Intensity-Modulated Image-Guided Radiotherapy (IMRT/IGRT)

In this form of radiation treatment, physicians use computed tomography (CT) to scan your tumor and create beams of radiation that closely conform to the tumor's shape. The beams vary in shape and intensity to deliver a higher dose of radiation to the tumor and lower doses to nearby healthy tissue.

IMRT/IGRT is generally used after surgery if there’s a high risk the cancer might recur, such as if multiple lymph nodes in the neck are involved.

Neutron Therapy

Neutron therapy is a strong form of radiotherapy used for advanced melanomas that cannot be removed by surgery. It also helps manage pain and other symptoms when melanoma is widespread.

Proton Therapy for Ocular Melanoma

Proton therapy is a type of radiation treatment that uses protons, which are positively charged particles, to destroy cancer cells. It is used as a treatment option for ocular melanoma that occurs in the eye.

Learn more about proton therapy for ocular melanoma.

Why Choose Fred Hutch for Radiation Therapy for Melanoma

Fred Hutch patients get radiation therapy from leading radiation oncologists who specialize in specific cancers. Your Fred Hutch radiation oncologist knows the most advanced options for treating your disease and will design a personalized treatment plan to target your tumor. We offer a full range of radiation therapy, including access to the latest and most innovative options through our clinical trials.

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Dr. Ramesh Rengan in a black suit with a purple tie
Dr. Ramesh Rengan, senior vice president and director of the Fred Hutch Radiation Oncology Division

Radiation Therapy for Melanoma FAQ

During and after radiation therapy, it's normal for the treated skin to become sensitive, red and irritated. To help it heal, be gentle with the area. Wash it with warm water and a mild, unscented soap, using your hands instead of a washcloth or loofah. Keep the skin moisturized with a product your care team recommends, and avoid using other products like powders, perfumes or deodorants. It's also helpful to wear loose, soft clothing and keep the area away from sun exposure.

Feeling very tired, also known as fatigue, is one of the most common side effects of radiation therapy. It can happen because your body is using a lot of energy to heal from the treatment. Fatigue can build up over the course of your therapy and can last for several weeks after you are done. To manage it, try to find a balance between rest and gentle activity. Short walks or other light exercises may help improve your energy levels. You should also eat a healthy, balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids to help your body maintain its strength. You can always talk to your Fred Hutch care team if you need specific guidance and support.

It's very important to attend all of your scheduled radiation appointments. Coming to all your visits should be your top priority. Your treatment is carefully planned by your physician to deliver a precise dose of radiation over a specific period of time to kill cancer cells while allowing healthy cells to recover. Missing a session can interrupt this process. While a single missed session for an unavoidable reason or emergency is not likely to severely impact your overall outcome, it's crucial to contact your care team as soon as possible if you think you will miss an appointment.