Immunotherapy for Merkel cell carcinoma: a turning point in patient care

J Immunother Cancer. 2018 Mar 23;6(1):23. doi: 10.1186/s40425-018-0335-9.

Abstract

Merkel Cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive cancer, with an estimated disease-associated mortality as high as 46%. MCC has proven to be an immunologically responsive disease and the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors has changed the treatment landscape for patients with advanced MCC. In this review, we discuss the rationale for the use of immune checkpoint inhibition, review current single agent therapies tested in and approved for MCC, and discuss emerging immunotherapeutic options for these patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological / therapeutic use*
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Patient Care
  • Skin Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Skin Neoplasms / immunology

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological