The prognosis, or outcome, for stage 4 melanoma is low. There is a 15 to 20 percent chance of survival for a five-year outlook, and 10 to 15 percent chance for a ten-year outlook, says the American Cancer Society. Melanoma is a form of skin cancer.
People who might have melanoma experience odd markings, lesions and bumps on the skin. Most moles are normal and harmless, but others may indicate melanoma. Following the “ABCDE” rule helps a patient determine whether he or she should see a doctor to check for the cancer. Moles that often change, have irregular borders or have large diameters may be cancerous.
Melanoma that has progressed to stage 4 is severe and is the last stage of the cancer. Patients are more likely to survive stage 4 melanoma if the cancer has not spread to other organs, the American Cancer Society says. Older people are more likely to die of melanoma, and melanoma in the nail bed, the sole of the foot or the palm of the hand can be more serious than other types.
While the prognosis for stage 4 melanoma is not good, melanoma caught in the earliest stages can be treated. The vast majority of patients in the beginning stages of melanoma live, which is why it is important to see a doctor for any skin irregularities as soon as they appear.