Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy Shows Promise in Resectable Desmoplastic Melanoma

In this interview with Pharmacy Times, Karen Knudsen, PhD, MBA, CEO of Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, discusses how emerging data on neoadjuvant PD-1 blockade may reshape treatment for resectable desmoplastic melanoma. She highlights a remarkable 71% complete pathologic response rate after just 3 doses of pembrolizumab (Keytruda; Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC), calling the results truly paradigm shifting. Knudsen explains how administering immunotherapy before surgery could improve margin management, reduce residual disease, and potentially allow for treatment de-escalation in strong responders. She also emphasizes the potential quality-of-life benefits, including fewer repeat surgeries and less extensive resections. Additionally, she underscores the importance of careful patient selection, education on treatment timelines, and counseling on manageable adverse effects such as rash, fatigue, and diarrhea.