PSI Barbering Practice Exam

How is the survival rate affected once malignant melanoma reaches the lymph nodes?

1. It increases

2. It remains the same

3. It drops drastically

4. It becomes irrelevant

The correct answer is: It drops drastically

When malignant melanoma spreads to the lymph nodes, the prognosis for the patient typically worsens significantly. This is due to the fact that lymph nodes are part of the body’s immune system, and the involvement of these nodes indicates that cancer has begun to spread beyond its original location. The survival rate drops drastically because stage IV melanoma, which often includes lymph node involvement, typically presents a more advanced stage of cancer. At this stage, the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival decrease. The body finds it increasingly difficult to fight off the spread of cancer, and the options for effective treatment become more limited. In summary, the correct answer reflects the serious implications of lymph node involvement in malignant melanoma, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to improve outcomes.