Real-World Experience with Cemiplimab Treatment for Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma-A Retrospective...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunotherapy
• Dermatology

Background:

• Advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) treatment has evolved with immunotherapy.
• Cemiplimab, an anti-PD1 inhibitor, shows promise but requires real-world validation.
• Limited real-world data exists for cemiplimab in systemic treatment of cSCC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the real-world efficacy of cemiplimab for advanced cSCC.
• To assess the safety profile of cemiplimab in a clinical setting.
• To analyze outcomes in diverse patient populations, including elderly and immunocompromised individuals.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patients receiving at least two doses of cemiplimab (February 2020 - January 2023).
• Evaluation of progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR).
• Adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) were meticulously recorded.

Main Results:

• 25 patients with median age 78 years were included; 20% were immunocompromised.
• 64% experienced AEs, with 36% being serious (grade ≥ 3); 24% discontinued treatment due to AEs.
• Objective response rate (ORR) was 52%, with 76% disease control rate (DCR); immunocompromised patients showed a 60% ORR and 80% DCR.

Conclusions:

• Cemiplimab demonstrates significant efficacy in treating locally advanced or metastatic cSCC in a real-world setting.
• The treatment is effective even in elderly, polymorbid, and immunocompromised patient groups.
• Real-world data supports cemiplimab as a viable systemic treatment option for advanced cSCC.