Update on Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Avelumab achieves a 62.1% overall response rate in first‑line therapy for metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma.
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer with rising incidence, especially in the head and neck region. Retrospective data and limited Phase II trials indicate that immune checkpoint inhibitors, notably Avelumab, provide high response rates and durable disease control in metastatic MCC, outperforming conventional chemotherapy. Optimal use of surgery, radiation, and systemic therapy remains under investigation, and further prospective trials are needed to refine treatment strategies.
MCC has a high mortality rate and limited evidence‑based treatment options. The demonstrated activity of PD‑1/PD‑L1 blockade offers a promising therapeutic avenue, yet the rarity of the disease hampers large randomized trials, underscoring the need for ongoing clinical research.
Bizonyítékszint: Klinikai vizsgálat. Formális klinikai vizsgálati eredmény.
Kapcsolódó jelek
- Recurrence and Survival Outcomes in Patients with Primary Merkel Cell Carcinoma with Positive, Negative, or Not Performed Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
- Repurposed pinworm medication shows ‘promise’ as treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Epidemiology, Target, and Therapy
- The biology and treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma: current understanding and research priorities
- Avelumab in patients with chemotherapy‑refractory metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma: a multicentre, single‑group, open‑label, phase 2 trial