Update on Immunotherapeutic Strategies for Advanced Merkel Cell Carcinoma

STATEMENT OF NEED

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine tumor of unknown origin that typically presents in older white and immunocompromised adults. An estimated 2,488 cases are diagnosed in the United States annually (Paulson et al, 2018). The incidence of MCC has risen rapidly during the past few decades, which has been attributed in part to people living longer with increased sun exposure and weakened immune systems, a feature that suggests an infectious origin and warrants further research (NCCN, 2019). Treatment standards are lacking and consequently clinical decision making is often empirical rather than evidence-based. The mortality rate for MCC presently exceeds that of melanoma. The overall 5-year survival rate ranges from 41% to 77%, depending upon stage at presentation (NCCN, 2019).

TARGET AUDIENCE

Oncologists, dermatologists, oncology advanced practitioners, oncology nurses, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

1.) Assess emerging evidence on immunotherapeutic strategies for advanced MCC
2.) Describe multidisciplinary approaches to monitor and manage immune-related adverse events in patients receiving treatment for advanced MCC

Also available as a podcast.