Dr. Spitler and her team have been working together for many years to provide information to patients and the medical community regarding therapeutic options for patients with melanoma. The team consists of physicians representing all of the specialties concerned with melanoma:

• Lynn E. Spitler, M.D., Director, Immunology
• Robert Weber, M.D., Associate Director, Oncology 
• Robert Allen, M.D. Surgery
• Ruth Marlin, M.D. Integrative Oncology

More than 4,000 patients have come to the Melanoma Center for consultation regarding melanoma. At the time of the first consultation, the patient’s records are reviewed in detail and he/she undergoes a history and physical examination. There is a review of operative, pathology and laboratory test reports, radiological procedures and all past therapies. If appropriate, the patient’s slides, X-rays, and scans are also reviewed. The patient and his/her family has the opportunity to view a video about melanoma that addresses questions most frequently asked by patients. The patient’s care is discussed by the Consulting Panel and the recommendations for therapy are discussed with with the patient (and family members, if desired).

After the initial consultation, patients with melanoma are encouraged to have regular follow-up with us and/or with their regular oncologist. Should a problem arise, the patient’s case will be discussed again by the Consulting Panel.

The Northern California Melanoma Center is currently engaged in a major research effort aimed at developing more effective therapies for malignant melanoma. Many of these studies include using investigational immunotherapy.