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Updated: Jan 31, 2026
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection and Detection
Published on: February 7, 2019
Immune checkpoint blockade for Merkel cell carcinoma: actual findings and unanswered questions
Marco Gallo1, Valentina Guarnotta2, Federica De Cicco3
1Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Via Genova 3, 10126, Turin, Italy. mgallo4@cittadellasalute.to.it.
Purpose:
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma arising from the skin. We aimed to review and deal with some of the most relevant controversial topics on the correct use of immunotherapy for the treatment of MCC.
Methods:
The primary search was carried out via PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (until 31st May, 2018), while other articles and guidelines were retrieved from related papers or those referenced in these papers. Additionally, we performed an extensive search on ClinicalTrials.gov to gather information on the ongoing clinical trials related to this specific topic.
Results:
We performed an up-to-date critical review taking into account the results of both retrospective and prospective published studies evaluating these issues: Are there any predictive criteria of response to immunotherapy? What is the correct place of immunotherapy in the treatment algorithm of MCC? What is the best choice after immunotherapy failure? What to do with patients for whom immunotherapy is not been feasible or contraindicated? How long should immunotherapy be prolonged, and what follow-up should be offered after complete response?
Conclusion:
The therapeutic landscape of MCC is rapidly evolving: many open issues will probably be resolved, and many other questions are likely to arise in the next few years. The results of ongoing prospective clinical trials and of several other studies on these issues are eagerly awaited.
Insights
This review addresses key questions regarding immunotherapy for Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare skin cancer. It highlights the evolving treatment landscape and the need for further research to optimize patient care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer.
- Immunotherapy has emerged as a significant treatment modality for MCC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review controversial topics concerning the optimal use of immunotherapy in MCC treatment.
- To provide insights into current challenges and future directions in MCC immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library up to May 2018.
- Inclusion of related articles, guidelines, and ongoing clinical trial data from ClinicalTrials.gov.
Main Results:
- Exploration of predictive response criteria for immunotherapy in MCC.
- Discussion on the role of immunotherapy within the MCC treatment algorithm.
- Analysis of treatment strategies post-immunotherapy failure, for contraindications, and duration/follow-up.
Conclusions:
- The treatment of MCC is rapidly advancing with immunotherapy.
- Several open questions remain, necessitating ongoing research and clinical trials to refine treatment protocols.
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