Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) as a treatment for melanoma: A systematic review

Background and aimsMelanoma now presents an average risk of 1 in 50 in the Western world. Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), an FDAapproved oncolytic virus derived from Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), has proven effective in reducing morbidity and mortality from melanoma but causes adverse effects like chills, fever, exhaustion, and injection site discomfort. Research focuses on combining T-VEC with immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab, to enhance its efficacy and broaden its application.MethodsA systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ProMED, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Results were tabulated and analyzed.ResultsThis review included 15 studies comprising nine cohorts, four case reports, a case series, and a randomized control trial, involving 779 melanoma patients in stages IIIB to IV, 58% of whom were male with a mean age of 65 years. Treatment duration with T-VEC averaged 35.07 weeks, with dosages ranging from 10^6 to 10^8 PFU/ml. The intervention yielded a mean DRR of 41.87% and an ORR of 62.2%. The most common side effect was chills, affecting 21.69% of participants. Pyrexia was reported by 20.41% of participants, followed by influenzalike illness (14.89%).ConclusionT-VEC effectively improves ORR and DRR in melanoma patients. However, further research is needed on combination therapy prospects and its adverse effects.