Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and melanoma is the most dangerous form. While surgery, radiation, and chemo have been the go-to treatments for years, immunotherapy has changed the game. Instead of attacking cancer directly, this approach helps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. If you or a loved one is considering this treatment, understanding what to expect can make the journey a little less daunting.
What is Immunotherapy for Melanoma?
Basically, immunotherapy is like teaching your body’s own soldiers (your immune system) to fight cancer. Instead of just bombing the cancer cells directly, like with chemo, it gives your body the tools to find and destroy them itself. This is super helpful for tricky cancers like melanoma, which are good at hiding. And sometimes, immunotherapy works even better when you use it with other treatments.
How Immunotherapy Works
The immune system acts as the body’s defense, searching for threats like cancer cells. However, some cancers develop tricks to escape detection. Immunotherapy strengthens the immune response by:
- Teaching immune cells to identify and destroy cancer more effectively.
- Disrupting the signals that help cancer hide from immune attacks.
- Boosting the production of immune cells that target melanoma.
Through these processes, immunotherapy for skin cancer has emerged as a breakthrough treatment, especially for advanced or recurrent melanoma.
Types of Immunotherapy for Skin Cancer
Different types of immunotherapy are used to treat melanoma and other skin cancers. Each method functions uniquely, but all aim to strengthen the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.
Checkpoint Inhibitors
Checkpoint inhibitors help the immune system fight back against cancer. T cells, a type of white blood cell, naturally turn on and off to keep things balanced. But cancer cells take advantage of this by keeping T cells switched off, stopping them from attacking. Checkpoint inhibitors step in to break this cycle, allowing T cells to go back in identifying and destroying cancer cells.
This form of immunotherapy is often used for metastatic melanoma or when surgery is not a viable option. Some cancers treated with checkpoint inhibitors include:
- Melanoma
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Head and neck cancer
Adoptive Cell Therapy (T-Cell Transfer Therapy)
This method strengthens the body’s immune cells, making them more effective at targeting and destroying cancer cells. Doctors extract immune cells from the patient, grow them in a laboratory, and then reintroduce them into the body. The goal is to increase the number of immune cells that can recognize and destroy melanoma cells.
CAR T-Cell Therapy
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a form of adoptive cell therapy that enhances T cells’ ability to detect and destroy cancer cells. While primarily used for blood cancers, researchers are exploring its potential for treating melanoma and other solid tumors.
Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) Therapy
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are immune cells that naturally exist within tumors but often lack the strength to eliminate cancer effectively. TIL therapy involves extracting these cells, expanding them in a laboratory to increase their numbers, and then reinfusing them into the body to enhance the immune system’s ability to fight melanoma.
Monoclonal Antibody Therapy
Monoclonal antibodies are synthetic proteins designed to target cancer cells and support the immune system in eliminating them. Some work by tagging cancer cells, making them easier for immune cells to detect and destroy. Others act as delivery systems, carrying treatments like chemotherapy or radiation directly to cancer cells for a more precise attack.
Cancer Vaccines
Unlike conventional vaccines that protect against infections, cancer vaccines train the immune system to identify and attack cancer cells more effectively. These vaccines expose the body to certain cancer proteins, training immune cells to detect and attack melanoma cells.
Immune System Modulators
These medications enhance the immune system’s response, making it more effective in targeting and destroying cancer cells. They include:
- Cytokines: Proteins that help immune cells communicate and coordinate attacks on cancer.
- Immunomodulatory drugs: Medications that enhance immune responses and prevent tumor growth.
Who Can Receive Immunotherapy?
Doctors consider immunotherapy for skin cancer based on various factors, including:
- Cancer type and stage
- Overall health and immune system strength
- Response to previous treatments
It is often recommended for patients with metastatic melanoma, recurrent skin cancer, or cases where other treatments have not been effective.
How Immunotherapy is Administered
Doctors typically administer immunotherapy through intravenous (IV) infusions, with the schedule varying based on the drug, cancer stage, and patient response. Some individuals receive treatment daily, while others follow weekly or monthly regimens.
Many immunotherapy plans use a cycle-based structure, where treatment is given for a set period, followed by a break to help the body recover. The overall duration differs for each patient, with doctors closely monitoring progress to assess effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
Potential Side Effects of Immunotherapy
While immunotherapy can be highly effective, it also comes with side effects. Most side effects occur because the immune system becomes overactive, attacking healthy tissues along with cancer cells. Common side effects include:
- Fatigue
- Skin rash and itching
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Low thyroid hormone levels
In certain situations, severe complications may arise, including inflammation in essential organs. Patients should promptly inform their doctor about any unexpected symptoms.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before Treatment Begins
Doctors perform various tests to assess whether immunotherapy is a viable option. These may include blood tests, imaging scans, and biopsies. Patients should have an open discussion with their healthcare team about potential risks and benefits.
During Treatment
Treatment sessions may last several hours, depending on the type of immunotherapy. Some patients might feel mild side effects during or after the infusion, including chills, fever, or fatigue.
After Treatment
Regular follow-ups help doctors assess progress and manage side effects. Some patients experience long-lasting immune responses, while others may need additional treatments. Since immunotherapy does not work for everyone, alternative treatments may be considered if there is no improvement.
How to Prepare for Immunotherapy
Managing Side Effects
To manage side effects like nausea or diarrhea, doctors may recommend medications. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet like HPV, and getting enough rest can also help support the immune system.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Mild exercise, stress management techniques, and a healthy diet can improve overall well-being during treatment. Since immunotherapy can temporarily weaken the immune system, patients should take precautions to avoid exposure to infections.
The Future of Immunotherapy for Skin Cancer
Melanoma immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment, offering hope to many patients. Researchers continue to develop new drugs and refine existing treatments, expanding options for those with skin cancer. While immunotherapy is not a cure, it has helped many patients live longer and with a better quality of life. Patients thinking about immunotherapy should consult their healthcare provider to explore the most suitable treatment plan for their condition. With continued advancements, immunotherapy will remain a key part of the fight against melanoma and other skin cancers.