Based on results from the KEYNOTE-716 trial led by Dr. Jason Luke, pembrolizumab resulted in a marked improvement in recurrence-free survival (RFS) and reduced disease recurrence or death by 35%, leading to its approval for treatment of patients 12 years and older with stage IIB and IIC melanoma. The clinical trial data continue to mature and at the last interim follow up for RFS (median 18 months), presented by Dr. Luke at the Society for Melanoma Research Annual Meeting, the benefit had improved further to a 39% reduction and it is believed that this will continue to increase over time.
We updated KEYNOTE-716 P3 pembro v pla in stage II #melanoma at #SMR21 showing enlarging RFS HR now at 18 mo (IA2). Reminder stage IIB/C have sim recur/death v IIIA/B but do not have modern adjuvant Rx. KN-716 overall (+) for 1' RFS endpt at IA1 (PDUFA Dec 4). Some thoughts: pic.twitter.com/w8h6X79wcu
— Jason Luke, MD, FACP (@jasonlukemd) November 2, 2021