Neoadjuvant intent anti-programmed death-1 immunotherapy for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in patients with...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunotherapy
• Dermatology

Background:

• Patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) and concurrent hematologic malignancy are often excluded from anti-programmed death-1 (PD1) therapy trials.
• Concerns regarding efficacy and safety limit treatment options for this patient population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical outcomes and safety of neoadjuvant anti-PD1 therapy.
• To assess response rates, recurrence risk, and survival in patients with CSCC and concurrent hematologic malignancy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective single-institution cohort study.
• Analysis of neoadjuvant anti-PD1 therapy in advanced CSCC patients with concurrent hematologic malignancy.
• Reporting of clinical, radiographic, and pathologic response, safety, and survival data.

Main Results:

• Ten patients received neoadjuvant cemiplimab; 4/10 showed a response.
• Two patients achieved complete pathologic response after surgery; two without surgery had clinical response.
• One patient on active hematologic malignancy treatment responded clinically and pathologically.
• One patient experienced a grade 3 immune-related adverse event (arthritis).

Conclusions:

• Neoadjuvant anti-PD1 therapy appears feasible in CSCC patients with concurrent hematologic malignancy.
• Observed outcomes in this small cohort suggest potential clinical benefit.
• Prospective studies are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in this underrepresented group.