The Role of Immunotherapy in Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive skin cancer with a higher mortality rate than melanoma. Traditional treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy have limited long-term effectiveness, as recurrences and resistance are common. Immunotherapy has transformed care for advanced MCC by harnessing the immune system to fight cancer. Drugs called immune checkpoint inhibitors—such as pembrolizumab, avelumab, and nivolumab—block the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, allowing immune cells to better attack tumors. Clinical trials have shown strong and lasting responses, especially when given as first-line therapy. Side effects may include inflammation of organs (like thyroid, lungs, or liver) and infusion-related reactions, but overall these therapies are better tolerated than chemotherapy. Immunotherapy is now considered the new standard-of-care for metastatic or unresectable MCC, with ongoing studies exploring combination approaches to improve outcomes further.

Click below to download this resource.