Related Experiment Video

Updated: Mar 2, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
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Published on: September 7, 2013

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Checkpoint inhibition and melanoma: Considerations in treating the older adult

Claire F Friedman1, Jedd D Wolchok1

  • 1Melanoma and Immunotherapeutics Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center 1275 York Ave., New York, NY 10065, USA.

Journal of Geriatric Oncology
|May 17, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Older adults with advanced melanoma benefit from checkpoint inhibitor therapy, showing improved survival without increased adverse events. Careful management of potential side effects is crucial for this growing patient population.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Geriatric Medicine
  • Immunotherapy

Background:

  • Melanoma incidence and mortality are rising in older adults.
  • Checkpoint inhibitors are a standard treatment for advanced melanoma.
  • Older adults (≥65) may benefit from these therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of checkpoint inhibitors in older adults with advanced melanoma.
  • To inform clinical practice regarding immunotherapy use in geriatric oncology patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical trial data and real-world evidence.
  • Analysis of survival outcomes and adverse event profiles in patients aged 65 and older.

Main Results:

  • Checkpoint inhibitors demonstrate a survival benefit in older adults with stage IV or unresectable stage III melanoma.
  • Adverse event incidence in older adults is comparable to younger populations.
  • Specific side effect management strategies are important for this demographic.

Conclusions:

  • Checkpoint inhibitors are a viable and effective treatment option for advanced melanoma in older adults.
  • Geriatric-specific considerations for side effect management are necessary.
  • Further research into optimizing immunotherapy for elderly cancer patients is warranted.
Keywords:
Checkpoint inhibitorsImmune-related adverse eventsIpilimumabMelanomaNivolumabPembrolizumab

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