Division of Solid Tumor Oncology

The Sydney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center (SKCCC) at Jefferson Health, has become the national destination of choice for many patients with advanced melanoma. Each year, around 350 new cutaneous melanoma patients from the tri-state area are treated by the expert physicians at the center. A defining feature of the melanoma program is the highly personalized care provided by our specialists. Every new patient—whether their growths are benign, they have terminal melanoma or fall anywhere in between—receives thorough attention. As a trained medical student, you gain valuable knowledge working with our physicians as they develop detailed histories, conduct comprehensive exams, and carefully review pathology slides before providing a complete assessment and tailored treatment recommendations.

Our team has pioneered breakthrough treatments for skin cancer, transforming research discoveries into tangible improvements in patient care. Takami Sato, MD, PhD is the Director, of the Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Group and is a renowned expert in the field of cancer immunotherapy. He is a prominent physician-scientist with expertise in developing novel cancer treatments that harness the body’s immune system to target and eliminate cancer cells. Dr. Sato is particularly known for his work in cancer vaccines and immune system modulation, and he has contributed significantly to advancing immunotherapeutic strategies for various types of cancer. His research and clinical efforts are focused on improving outcomes for cancer patients through personalized treatment approaches that utilize cutting-edge immunotherapy techniques. Dr. Sato is affiliated with major institutions in the field of oncology and continues to lead research initiatives aimed at revolutionizing cancer treatment. We also offer a wide range of cutting-edge clinical trials and are deeply engaged in ongoing skin cancer research.

In addition, Jefferson serves as a national referral center for patients with uveal melanoma, a rare form of melanoma that affects the eye. Regardless of the stage, patients with uveal melanoma can access compassionate, state-of-the-art care at Jefferson Health. We collaborate closely with the Ocular Oncology Service at Wills Eye Hospital, the nation’s largest eye cancer center, dedicated to diagnosing and treating various eye tumors and cancers. Our Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Group at SKCCC is one of the few in the U.S. specializing in melanoma of the eye. Our team consists of internationally recognized oncologist’s, such as Marlana Orloff, MD, Associate Professor is the Alexander & Johnston Family Endowed Clinical Director in Uveal Melanoma. The treatment of uveal melanoma has evolved significantly, especially for advanced and metastatic cases. Recent advancements in medical oncology emphasize innovative chemotherapy regimens, combination therapies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) designed to enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects. Dr. Orloff is a leading expert in the treatment of uveal melanoma, a rare and complex eye cancer that originates in the uvea, the eye's middle layer. At SKCCC, she plays a pivotal role in providing specialized care for patients with this disease.

Renowned for her involvement in clinical trials, Dr. Orloff is dedicated to advancing treatment options for uveal melanoma. Beyond her expertise in this rare cancer, she also specializes in managing metastatic malignancies. She works closely with a multidisciplinary team at Jefferson, including ocular oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons, to ensure comprehensive, patient-centered care. Her research and clinical efforts focus on exploring novel therapies and expanding clinical trial opportunities, positioning her as a key figure in uveal melanoma treatment and research.

Finally, the Melanoma Research Institute of Excellence (MRIE) further ensures that our patients benefit from next-generation therapies for these complex cancers. MRIE combines expertise in both uveal and cutaneous melanoma, bringing together internationally recognized specialists and pioneering scientists. Rino Seedor, MD, is a distinguished medical oncologist and expert in melanoma, specializing in the treatment and research of melanoma and other skin cancers. At the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, she plays a vital role in advancing the care and treatment of patients with melanoma, including those with advanced or metastatic disease.  Dr. Seedor is known for her expertise in immunotherapy and targeted therapies for melanoma, particularly in the context of clinical trials and novel treatments. She works closely with other specialists to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with melanoma, incorporating cutting-edge therapies into their treatment plans. As a researcher, Dr. Seedor is involved in exploring new therapeutic strategies for melanoma, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and exploring the potential of immunotherapy and other innovative treatments. She contributes significantly to advancing melanoma care through his clinical work and research endeavors. We perform over 650 procedures annually to treat metastatic ocular melanoma. Our multidisciplinary team has pioneered immuno-embolization techniques that improve survival for patients with liver involvement. We are also leaders in ocular melanoma clinical trials, providing our patients with early access to promising new treatments.

This collaborative program is focused on rapidly translating research discoveries into clinical treatments, providing patients with access to innovative, first-in-field therapies. With a proven track record of bench-to-bedside breakthroughs, MRIE is at the forefront of advancing melanoma care and improving patient outcomes.