Largest real world database of immune checkpoint inhibitors in melanoma

Results of the largest real world dataset in metastatic melanoma via uptake of immune checkpoint inhibitors was presented at the 2020 ASCO-SITC Clinical Immuno-Oncology Symposium in Orlando Florida, February 6-8, 2020.  The dataset, comprised of 5465 melanoma patients studied between April 2014 - March 2018 reports that 2322 of the 5465 patients received first-line treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (1174 were administered pembrolizumab, 724 ipilimumab, 52 nivolumab, and 372 a combination of both ipilimumab and nivolumab.

To read more about this study, click here.

Source mentioned:  Corrie PG, Chao D, Board R, et al. Metastatic melanoma patient outcomes since introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors in England between 2014 and 2018. J Clin Oncol 2020; 38:(suppl 5; abstr 55).   

First baby born to cancer patienst from eggs matured in lab and frozen

The Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation at the Antoine Béclère University Hospital near Paris, France have "announced the birth of the first baby to be born to a cancer patient from an immature eff that was matured in the laboratory, frozen, then thawed and fertilized five years later."  According to the announcement, the 34-year old mother of the baby boy was infertile due to the chemotherapy she underwent for breast cancer.  Prior to beginning her cancer treatment, her immature eggs were removed and allowed to fully develop via in vitro maturation (IVM).  This study is believed to be the first successful pregnancy in cancer patients following IVM and vitrification.

To read more about this study, click here.

Cancer Related to Infections

A recently published article by investigators from the International Agency on Cancer (IARC) provides a global analysis of cancer diagnoses attributable to infections.  According to the study, "an estimated 2.2 million infection-attributable cancer cases were diagnosed worldwide [in 2018]."  Primary causes included Helicobacter pylori, human papillomavirus (HPV), and hepatitis B and C viruses.

To read more about this study, click here.

Source mentioned: de Martel C, Georges D, Bray F, Ferlay J, Clifford GM. (2020). Global burden of cancer attributable to infections in 2018: a worldwide incidence analysis. Lancet Glob Health. 2020 Feb;8(2): e180-e190.