Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is less common and is associated with higher mortality rates than melanoma, according to a study that also reported that male gender, older age, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) are significant risk factors.
Of Interest
Novel Tool for Predicting Response to Immunotherapy in Melanoma Under Study
A team of scientists from the United Kingdom and the United States has discovered that the activity of macrophages may prove to be useful in predicting whether or not a patient with melanoma will respond to immunotherapy. Their findings, published in JCO Oncology Advances, may help clinicians to select treatments that are most likely to be effective for their patients.
Macrophages, not T cells, may hold key to predicting which melanoma patients are more likely to respond to immunotherapy
PD-L1 ligand expression demonstrates heterogeneity in both pre- and postconditions and was without direct correlation with the interactive state or TVEC response. The red line indicates no interaction (transfer efficiency of 4% or lower). Credit: JCO Oncology Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1200/OA-24-00049
Dr Chmielowski on the Rationale for Investigating Oncolytic Viruses in Melanoma
Bartosz Chmielowski, MD, PhD, health sciences clinical professor, medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Sarcoma and Connective Tissue Medical Oncology, UCLA Health, discusses the rationale for investigating oncolytic viruses in melanoma.