Despite being one of the most common forms of skin cancer, few likely think of melanoma beyond when applying sun protection. “For the more than one million people impacted by melanoma, the condition is a daily reminder that affects every aspect of their lives,” shares Dr. Desiree D’Angelo, with Premier Surgical Network. While melanoma that is detected early on can often be removed completely, those with late-stage melanoma historically have a less favorable prognosis.
Fortunately, many medical advances in late-stage melanoma care have occurred over the past decade. Treatments like immunotherapy and targeted therapy, specifically, have been shown to lessen the spread of this form of cancer. These and other advancements in melanoma treatment have not only offered renewed hope for those with late-stage skin cancer, but also helped improve survival rates and quality of life overall.
Key Advancements in Forms of Targeted Therapy
While traditional chemotherapy targets all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy differs in that it works by focusing on only the specific pathways and cellular characteristics driving the cancer growth. “Targeted therapy reduces the amount of harm done to healthy cells and stress your body undergoes,” Dr. D’Angelo advises. This often results in fewer side effects.
These are some of the specific types of targeted therapy assisting in treating melanoma.
BRAF Mutations and MEK Inhibitors
BRAF inhibitors are a class of medications that target and inhibit overactive BRAF proteins, which cause tumor mutation and growth in about 50% of melanomas. However, resistance to these inhibitors often develops because the signaling pathway can reactivate downstream at the MEK protein. MEK inhibitors, such as trametinib and cobimetinib, are combined with BRAF inhibitors to counter this issue. This combination therapy is more effective at suppressing tumor growth, delaying the onset of resistance, and improving overall outcomes than using either drug alone.
Combination Therapies
Combination therapies, like Nivolumab and Relatimlab, also offer new treatment pathways for patients with advanced melanoma. These targeted therapies aim to increase the immune response to melanoma. While Nivolumab prevents cancer cells from evading immune system responses, Relatimlab is directed at improving T-cell responses to cancer cells. This combination works well against advanced melanoma because of the dual-action blockade within your cells.
KIT Inhibitors
These inhibitors aim to reduce the growth and spread of cancerous cells in certain melanoma subtypes like acral and mucosal melanomas. By binding to KIT protein receptors, these inhibitors can disrupt the signaling pathways supporting the cancer’s growth. This treatment shows promise in fighting melanomas with KIT mutations and provides a targeted approach for patients with specific genetic profiles.
Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) Therapy
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy is another form of targeted therapy for melanoma that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. TILs are immune cells, primarily T cells, naturally found within tumors, where they recognize and attack cancer cells.
In this therapy, TILs are extracted from the patient’s tumor, multiplied in large quantities in a laboratory, and then re-infused into the patient. Once administered, these TILs target and destroy melanoma cells, leveraging the immune system’s natural ability to identify cancer.
Combining Skin Cancer Treatments for Better Outcomes
“With the number of melanoma treatment plans available today, combining different methods and medications, known as combination therapy, has proven to be one of the top methods for achieving better outcomes,” shares Dr. D’Angelo. For example, various melanoma drugs are often combined to stop the spread of cancer cells and improve their detection. This has resulted in a reduction of cellular resistance to treatment.
Adjuvant therapies have also shown promise in helping achieve the best results. Essentially, by combining surgical intervention with targeted therapy or immunotherapy, skin cancer doctors can address the cancerous cells from all angles and modalities, bolstering their efforts and improving patient results.
Get Melanoma Treatment in New Jersey Today
At Premier Surgical Network, we understand how difficult a cancer diagnosis can be. However, by learning the early signs of melanoma and familiarizing yourself with the advancements in melanoma treatment today, you can ensure you get the care you need.
“Decades ago, having melanoma may have been a life-threatening situation. Today, however, that is not the case. Many effective treatments now exist to treat melanoma and stop it from spreading,” Dr. D’Angelo assures.
If you or someone you know suspects they may have melanoma, contact us today. Our team of top NJ physicians will create a personalized care plan that leverages the latest advancements in melanoma treatment.