When melanoma is Stage 0, also referred to as ‘melanoma in situ,’ melanoma cancer cells have breached only the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). Stage 0 melanoma is contained completely in this layer and has not yet moved into the deeper layers of skin.
Stage 0 melanoma is generally removed surgically, with minimal but clear margins. This is sometimes called an excision. Learn more about melanoma treatments.
Stage 0 melanoma, or melanoma in situ, is highly curable. There is very little risk for recurrence or metastasis.
After being treated for stage 0 melanoma, you should conduct regular 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.
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.
