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Updated: Oct 29, 2025
Multiplexed Immunofluorescence Analysis and Quantification of Intratumoral PD-1+ Tim-3+ CD8+ T Cells
Published on: February 8, 2018
Predictive factors of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade in melanoma
Melissa Sarver1, Michael C Brown2, Kristen E Rhodin1
1Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
Abstract:
This review describes the current body of literature and ongoing clinical trials examining neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) for patients with resectable stage III and IV melanoma. Based on prior success in treating metastatic melanoma and as adjuvant therapy, ICIs are being explored in the neoadjuvant setting. There have been initial trials and there are many ongoing trials examining neoadjuvant ICI. Herein, we will review the clinical feasibility and efficacy of various neoadjuvant ICI regimens, explore pathologic and cellular responses, and present factors associated with predictive tumor response.
Insights
Neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) show promise for resectable stage III/IV melanoma. This review covers current literature and trials on ICI feasibility, efficacy, and predictive factors for tumor response.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated success in metastatic melanoma and as adjuvant therapy.
- The neoadjuvant setting is being explored for ICIs in melanoma to potentially improve outcomes before surgery.
- Prior successes warrant investigation into neoadjuvant ICI for resectable melanoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature and ongoing clinical trials on neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) for resectable stage III and IV melanoma.
- To evaluate the clinical feasibility and efficacy of different neoadjuvant ICI regimens.
- To explore pathologic and cellular responses and identify factors predicting tumor response.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on neoadjuvant ICI in melanoma.
- Analysis of data from completed and ongoing clinical trials.
- Examination of pathologic and cellular response markers.
Main Results:
- Initial trials and numerous ongoing studies are investigating neoadjuvant ICI for melanoma.
- The review will present findings on the clinical feasibility and efficacy of various neoadjuvant ICI regimens.
- Factors associated with predictive tumor response will be discussed.
Conclusions:
- Neoadjuvant ICI represents a promising therapeutic strategy for resectable stage III and IV melanoma.
- Further research and clinical trials are crucial to optimize neoadjuvant ICI regimens and patient selection.
- Understanding response predictors will enhance the application of neoadjuvant ICI in melanoma treatment.
