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Vienna, Austria – A promising new treatment for basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer, has emerged from a recent study by researchers at MedUni Vienna and University Hospital Vienna. This groundbreaking approach involves the use of Talimogene Laherparepvec (TVEC), a genetically modified virus that has demonstrated the potential to significantly reduce tumor size and improve surgical outcomes.
Basal cell carcinomas, often found in sun-exposed areas like the face, can be particularly challenging to treat when tumors are locally advanced. In many cases, surgical removal of these tumors requires complex procedures, including the use of flaps or skin grafts, leading to potential functional and cosmetic issues. However, the results of this new study offer hope for a less invasive and more effective treatment.
Published in Nature Cancer, the study explored the use of TVEC, a modified herpes simplex virus that targets and destroys tumor cells while simultaneously boosting the body’s immune response. The therapy has previously been approved for treating superficial melanoma metastases, but its application to basal cell carcinoma was uncharted.
The study involved 18 patients with advanced basal cell carcinoma who received six intralesional injections of TVEC over a 13-week period before their planned surgeries. The primary goal was to reduce tumor size sufficiently to enable direct wound closure, avoiding the need for more complex reconstructive procedures.
The results were promising. Half of the patients experienced a tumor reduction that allowed for simpler surgical procedures, while a third of the patients had no viable tumor cells detected after surgery. All patients saw a reduction in tumor size, with none experiencing tumor growth during the therapy. Furthermore, the treatment was well tolerated by the participants.
Christoph Höller, the principal investigator and Head of the Skin Tumor Centre at the Department of Dermatology, stated, “This therapy not only simplifies surgery but also reduces the risk of disfiguring operations and functional limitations.” Julia Ressler, first author and researcher at the Department of Dermatology, echoed these findings, noting the potential of TVEC to provide a significant benefit to patients who would otherwise require more invasive procedures.
Additionally, comprehensive analyses conducted in collaboration with St. Anna Children’s Hospital revealed that TVEC therapy strengthens the immune response in tumor tissue, adding another layer of potential effectiveness.
The researchers suggest that TVEC could be a viable pre-surgical (neoadjuvant) treatment for patients with basal cell carcinoma, especially for those who would benefit from avoiding major surgery. Further studies are underway to confirm the findings and explore its effectiveness in a larger patient cohort.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on a study published in Nature Cancer. The treatment discussed is still undergoing research, and further studies are necessary to confirm its long-term benefits and safety. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers for advice on treatment options.
