Melanoma primarily develops on the skin, but it may also occur on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, genital area, perineum, and conjunctiva. In addition to the skin, melanomas may arise in less typical locations such as the uveal layer of the eye or beneath the nails. These aggressive tumors begin in pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes and represent the third most frequent form of skin cancer diagnosed worldwide. These tumors vary in size, shape and color (they are usually pigmented) and are characterized by high invasiveness and rapid metastasis.
If you suspect melanoma or have already been diagnosed, do not waste precious time. Seek highly qualified medical care from physicians with practical experience treating this disease. These are the kinds of specialists who work in the adult oncology department at Tel Aviv Medical Clinic (TAMC).
Israel is internationally recognized for its experience in treating melanoma, due to the high incidence of sun-related skin cancers in the region. We also use advanced melanoma therapy in Tel Aviv. Our Melanoma specialists also participate in experimental work on the treatment of Melanoma both in its initial stages and in advanced (stage 3-4 Melanoma) stages of the Melanoma disease.
We Offer Our Patients:
- Effective, safe, and modern diagnostics. All necessary tests can be completed in one place within 3–4 business days.
- A multidisciplinary approach to every oncology case: each patient is treated by a full team of professionals working together.
- An individualized approach: the treatment protocol is developed based on both the characteristics of the disease and the patient.
- All our patients may participate free of charge in clinical trials of new drugs or treatment methods.
- Innovative genetic diagnostics that allow for 100% verification of the exact diagnosis and identification of the tumor’s molecular-genetic characteristics—enabling the development of the most effective personalized treatment plan (personalized oncology).
- Modern and, in some cases, experimental methods of treating Melanoma.
- Treatment by world-renowned specialists in Israel.
- Cutting-edge immunobiological therapies: Vismodegib and Sonidegib (Hedgehog pathway inhibitors), Cemiplimab (PD-1 receptor inhibitor), Pembrolizumab (Keytruda), Cemiplimab (Libtayo), Imiquimod, Erlotinib (Tarceva), and Panitumumab.
- Minimally invasive procedures—Mohs micrographic surgery, laser and photodynamic tumor removal, cryotherapy.
- Radiation therapy using modern and safe irradiation systems.
- An innovative melanoma immunotherapy protocol – TIL therapy.
What Causes Melanoma and Who Is at Risk? | TAMC Oncology in Israel
Melanoma Risk Factors You Shouldn’t Ignore – Insights from Israeli Specialists
Unfortunately, the exact causes of melanoma, like most malignant tumors, remain unknown. It is believed that melanocytes acquire the ability to grow and divide uncontrollably due to certain mutations.
Risk factors include:
- Green, gray, or blue eyes
- Fair skin
- Age over 50–60
- Presence of dysplastic nevi (moles with high risk of malignant transformation)
- Prolonged and intense exposure to ultraviolet radiation (natural or artificial)
- Certain hereditary diseases and genetic syndromes
- Family history of melanoma
Early Signs of Melanoma – When to See a Dermatologist in Israel
How to Recognize Melanoma Symptoms Before It’s Too Late
Unlike other cancers, melanoma of the skin can often be detected at an early stage. To do so, one must simply monitor the skin and consult a dermatologist when suspicious lesions appear.
Warning signs to watch for:
- Appearance of new lesions: moles, nodules, rashes, ulcers, pigmented or depigmented spots
- Changes in the size, shape, or structure of a mole; uneven color; signs of inflammation around the mole; depigmented halo; bleeding or discharge
- Pain, burning, or itching in the area of the lesion
ABCDE of Melanoma:
- A – Asymmetry – the mole has an asymmetric structure
- B – Border – the edges are irregular
- C – Color – uneven coloration or multicolored inclusions
- D – Diameter – larger than 6 mm
- E – Evolution – a new mole appearing after age 30
Melanoma Diagnosis in Israel – Advanced Tests and Genetic Profiling at TAMC
How We Diagnose Melanoma at TAMC Tel Aviv | From Biopsy to Imaging
Diagnosing skin tumors is generally straightforward. Upon identifying a suspicious skin lesion, the patient is referred to a dermatologist. The specialist will conduct a physical examination, perform dermatoscopy (an instrument that magnifies the lesion up to 20 times), collect the patient’s history, and assess symptoms. If the lesion appears borderline or suspicious, a biopsy will be recommended, and the patient will be referred to an oncologist.
Biopsy
This is the primary method for diagnosing malignant skin tumors. Since such lesions are superficial, performing a biopsy is technically simple. All biopsy specimens are sent to Israel’s top pathology laboratories for review. Thanks to such meticulous examination, we can be confident in the diagnosis and treatment planning.
In addition to standard histopathology, if the malignancy is confirmed (especially in cases of melanoma), the material is also analyzed using modern immunohistochemical and molecular-genetic techniques. These tests help identify specific mutations and receptors on the surface of cancer cells, which become targets for innovative, personalized treatments (targeted and immunobiological therapies).
Staging
The second diagnostic stage is determining the disease’s stage. This involves assessing how far the cancer has spread and whether there are regional or distant metastases. For this, we use modern imaging techniques: MRI, CT with or without contrast, ultrasound, PET-CT, PET-MRI, and bone scintigraphy.
Based on these findings, a detailed diagnosis is formed with staging information, and an effective treatment plan is selected accordingly.
Genetic Diagnostics
After a biopsy, our patients have access to cutting-edge molecular-genetic tests. These are essential in modern cancer diagnostics.
With genetic diagnostics, we can tailor treatment plans more effectively, as the tumor’s genetic makeup influences how it responds to various drugs.
All biomaterials are sent to top genetic labs in the United States for 100% diagnostic verification and genetic profiling. The sample collection is performed directly at TAMC.
Examples of melanoma-related tests:
- MCMLN | Melanoma Panel, Next-Generation Sequencing, Tumor
- Mutation analysis for: BAP1, BRAF, CDKN2A, CTNNB1, EIF1AX, GNA11, GNAQ, HRAS, KIT, KRAS, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, NF1, NRAS, SF3B1, TERT-promoter
All genetic testing is unique and can be performed directly through TAMC.
Melanoma Prognosis – What Are Your Chances and What Can Be Done?
Melanoma Survival Rates in Israel – What to Expect at Each Stage
The prognosis depends on the tumor’s location and the stage at which it was diagnosed.
- In early-stage melanoma, the prognosis is relatively favorable — five-year survival is around 80%.
- If the melanoma has spread to adjacent structures or distant organs, five-year survival drops to 10–15%.
Melanoma Treatment in Israel – Surgery, Immunotherapy & Clinical Trials
Best Treatments for Melanoma in Tel Aviv | Personalized Oncology at TAMC
Treatment depends on the cancer stage.
- For early-stage melanoma without metastasis, wide surgical excision is the standard approach. Minimally invasive techniques are not recommended for malignant tumors, as wide excision reduces the risk of recurrence.
- In cases of significant tissue loss (e.g., facial tumors), reconstructive plastic surgery is performed immediately or in a second stage.
For stage 3–4 melanoma, treatment includes:
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy (less effective in melanoma)
- Targeted and immunobiological therapy
TAMC patients can participate in clinical trials of new drugs, protocols, or experimental therapies. Our specialists actively contribute to research and continuously improve existing treatment methods. If a patient qualifies (we confirm after reviewing all medical documents), they may receive treatment under internal experimental protocols, which may be their only chance if standard methods have failed.
Surgery
The classic excision method uses a scalpel and is preferred when the tumor borders mucous membranes (e.g., lips). For large or recurrent tumors, Mohs surgery is often performed—removing tissue layer by layer until margins are clear. During surgery, intraoperative biopsies are taken.
Radiation Therapy
Often used after surgery, TAMC employs modern linear accelerators allowing:
- IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy)
- VMAT (Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy)
- SRT (Stereotactic Radiotherapy)
- SRS (Stereotactic Radiosurgery)
These technologies allow precise targeting with minimal impact on healthy tissue. Brachytherapy (contact therapy) is also used for skin tumors.
Chemotherapy
Unfortunately, melanoma is resistant to conventional chemo. Therefore, modern therapies are used instead.
Immunotherapy
- PD-1 inhibitors: Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab — shown to prolong survival in melanoma.
- CTLA-4 inhibitor: Ipilimumab — another option that improves survival.
Targeted Therapy
- BRAF inhibitors: Vemurafenib, Dabrafenib, Encorafenib — slow or stop tumor cell proliferation and extend survival in metastatic cases.
TIL Therapy at TAMC
TIL (Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes) immunotherapy is an innovative and effective method used in stage 3 and 4 melanoma when standard methods fail.
- Around 50% of patients show improvement
- Approximately 25% achieve full remission
Individualized Treatment Approach
Each case is discussed by a team of specialists. Our physicians rely on their extensive oncology experience and frequently go beyond standard protocols—adapting drug doses, radiation plans, and treatment schedules to ensure the best possible outcome for every patient.
Think you may have melanoma? Don’t wait.
Get a fast diagnosis, advanced treatment plan, and access to leading specialists – all in one place in Tel Aviv.
📞 Call us: +972-73-374-6844
📧 Email: [email protected]
💬 WhatsApp: +972-52-337-3108
FAQ about Melanoma Treatment in Israel?
1. Can I go to the TAMC clinic for private treatment?
Yes, our clinic provides the opportunity for private treatment of Melanoma in Israel. We accept patients from Israel and all over the world for treatment and consultation.
2. Can I sign up for an online consultation?
Yes, you can. TAMC offers online consultations with leading Melanoma specialists (second opinion) with a skin cancer specialist. To do this, you need to write to the email [email protected] or write to WhatsApp +972523373108 and our staff will promptly respond to you and help. You can also contact the medical tourism department regarding coming to Israel for treatment
3. Do we treat Melanoma in the last stages?
Yes. In our center there are specialists who are responsible for clinical work in the field of Oncology and in particular in the direction of Melanoma. You can apply for Clinical trials for patients with Melanoma by e-mail [email protected] or write to WhatsApp +972523373108 and our staff will promptly respond to you and help.
4. What is the best treatment for Melanoma in Israel?
At TAMC in Tel Aviv, we provide advanced and personalized treatment plans for Melanoma, including surgical removal (Mohs surgery), immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and access to clinical trials. The choice depends on the type and stage of the cancer.
5. Can international patients receive treatment for skin cancer?
Yes. TAMC offers full coordination for international patients, including remote consultations, second opinions, and complete diagnostic and treatment programs in English, Russian, or Hebrew.
6. What is the best treatment for Melanoma?
Diagnosis at TAMC includes dermatologist evaluation, dermatoscopy, biopsy, and advanced molecular testing. We also use imaging techniques like MRI, CT, and PET-CT to determine the cancer stage.
7. Are clinical trials for Melanoma available in Israel?
Absolutely. Patients at TAMC may qualify for participation in clinical trials involving new immunotherapy or targeted drugs. A new experimental study has also recently opened in which patients with stage 1 melanoma can participate in an innovative approach called TIL therapy.
8. What is the cost of private advanced oncology care for melanoma patients?
Costs vary depending on the complexity of diagnosis and treatment. We offer personalized quotes after reviewing your medical documents. Consultations, genetic testing, and surgery can be arranged within days.
9. How long does it take to receive treatment after diagnosis?
At TAMC, most patients begin treatment within 3–5 working days after completing diagnostic procedures. We offer all services under one roof to minimize waiting times.
