When a biopsy shows the presence of melanoma, the next step is to determine the cancer's stage, how large the tumor is and how far it has spread. These findings will form the basis for decisions about how to treat the disease most effectively.

The official guidelines for staging melanoma were updated in 2002 by the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), a distinguished group of experts from national healthcare organizations and major cancer centers around the country. Member organizations include the American Cancer Society, the American College of Surgeons, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Melanoma Center's Staging Tool will guide you through the process of identifying the stage of your melanoma.