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Updated: Apr 15, 2026

A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
Malignant melanoma showing a rapid response to nivolumab
Miho Tsutsumi1, Jun Asai1, Makoto Wada1
1Department of Dermatology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto, Japan.
Abstract:
Malignant melanoma is a highly aggressive skin tumour, with a recent rise in incidence. Nivolumab is a recently developed anti-programmed cell death-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor and its usage has resulted in a significant improvement in the overall survival of patients with metastatic melanomas. We report a case of advanced melanoma that showed a significant and rapid response to nivolumab treatment. The patient displayed multiple melanoma-associated vitiligo prior to treatment; this symptom was theorised to indicate potentially immunoreactive melanoma and the need for nivolumab. In addition, interferon-β was injected prior to nivolumab treatment. The significant rapid response to nivolumab suggested the induction of a marked immune response against melanoma by interferon-β. Therefore, interferon-β could be a useful and effective adjuvant for nivolumab therapy.
Insights
Advanced melanoma rapidly responded to nivolumab treatment. Pre-treatment with interferon-beta may enhance this immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy for melanoma patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Malignant melanoma incidence is rising, necessitating advanced treatment strategies.
- Nivolumab, an anti-programmed cell death-1 inhibitor, improves survival in metastatic melanoma.
- Vitiligo associated with melanoma may indicate a heightened immune response.
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