Updates on dabrafenib, trametinib, lambrolizumab, and more.
1,2
Merck’s PD-1 inhibitor, lambrolizumab, received “Breakthrough Therapy” status from the FDA based on trial data for this experimental antibodya category that may enable expedited development.3
Unfortunately, in 2011, the phase III AGENDA trial revealed disappointing data, demonstrating that Genta’s “Genasense” was not significantly superior compared with patients treated with chemotherapy alone.4
In conclusion, metastatic melanoma remains one of the most therapeutically challenging malignancies, and curative treatments remain elusive. However, for the first time in decades, new drugs have resulted in significant clinical responses. Advances in basic and clinical research have produced novel treatment strategies that target specific molecules and pathways expressed in cancer cells. One of the major focuses in melanoma therapy continues to be the understanding and targeting of signal transduction pathways responsible for the tumor’s capacity for growth and resistance to chemotherapy.5Additionally, the molecular heterogeneity of melanoma, and the recognition of numerous mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies, support the use of a combinatorial approach to treatment. Clinical management of melanoma is therefore improving with increased understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of the tumor.6
Similar Efficacy in Melanoma Shown in Indirect Comparison of PD-1/LAG3 vs PD-1/CTLA-4
July 16th 2024During a Case-Based Roundtable® event, Michael A. Postow, MD, discussed an indirect treatment comparison of nivolumab plus relatlimab vs nivolumab plus ipilimumab in patients with advanced melanoma in the first article of a 2-part series.
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EFS Benefit of Pembrolizumab Is Shown in Neoadjuvant, Adjuvant Setting
June 27th 2024Douglas B. Johnson, MD, MSCI, offers a comprehensive exploration of the nuances for using neoadjuvant therapy, addressing various treatment combinations, along with recommendations for first-line systemic therapy.
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