Tocalizumab for melanoma – pro
Tocilizumab is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking the receptor of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) protein in the body. IL-6 is a protein thought to help cancer cells grow and survive against the body’s defense mechanisms. Tocilizumab blocks the receptor of the IL-6 protein, which prevents the IL-6 protein from functioning. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies, such as ipilimumab and nivolumab, may help the body’s immune system attack cancer and may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread.
There is only a small phase II trial that suggests some efficacy. It is insufficient to consider this combination to be medically necessary.
Lebbé C, Meyer N, Mortier L, Marquez-Rodas I, et al. Evaluation of Two Dosing Regimens for Nivolumab in Combination With Ipilimumab in Patients With Advanced Melanoma: Results From the Phase IIIb/IV CheckMate 511 Trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology 2019 37:11, 867-875
Minichsdorfer C, Wasinger C, Sieczkowski E, Atil B, Hohenegger M. Tocilizumab unmasks a stage-dependent interleukin-6 component in statin-induced apoptosis of metastatic melanoma cells. Melanoma Res. 2015;25(4):284-294. doi:10.1097/CMR.0000000000000172