Dr. Verschraegen on the Need to Address TRAEs of Immunotherapy in Melanoma

Claire F. Verschraegen, MD, professor of Medicine, director of the Division of Medical Oncology, the Ohio State University College of Medicine, Diane Nye and Michael Rayden chair in Innovative Cancer Research, director for translational research, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC)– James, discusses the need to improve the management of treatment-related adverse effects (TRAEs) of immunotherapy in melanoma.

As the use of immunotherapy has become commonplace in the treatment of melanoma, there remains a need to address TRAEs that arise, Verschraegen says. Quick intervention is key to prevent long-term disability that can stem from TRAEs, Verschraegen continues.

Future trials in melanoma must focus on the management of immunotherapy-based TRAEs, Verschraegen explains. Additionally, research into the topic has already begun at the OSUCCC– James, Verschraegen notes. The use of immunotherapy in melanoma is creating a new field of pathologies that need to be better understood, defined, and treated, Verschraegen concludes.