Efficacy and toxicity of pembrolizumab in pediatric metastatic recurrent melanoma

Abstract

Background/Aim: Malignant melanoma is a rare disease in the pediatric population and there are no recommendations regarding its management in children, while the current standard of care in metastatic or unresectable melanoma in adult patients includes immunotherapy (anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 antibodies). Advances in the management of adults with melanoma offer the prospect of promising therapeutic options for children. Case Report: We describe a case of a 7-year-old patient with recurrent metastatic melanoma, for whom pembrolizumab was used as an adjuvant therapy on compassionate use basis. Conclusion: Due to adverse events, the treatment was discontinued after 5 months of pembrolizumab, but with 12-months of follow-up, patient remains in complete remission.