Curated clinical source

Stage I melanoma

A source-linked conversation guide for early-stage melanoma decisions.

Stage I melanoma is generally discussed as early melanoma, but the details of the pathology report still matter. Use NCI PDQ and your surgical/oncology team to understand the exact stage and what information is still missing.

What to clarify

• What is the Breslow thickness?
• Was ulceration present?
• Were margins clear?
• Is sentinel lymph node biopsy being discussed, and why?
• Who explains the final pathology report?

Questions to ask

• What surgery is recommended and what margin is planned?
• What finding would change this from a surgical plan to an oncology conversation?
• How often should skin and lymph node checks happen after treatment?