Durable complete response after combined treatment with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and oncolytic adenovirus (TILT-123) in a patient with metastatic mucosal melanoma

Background

Despite significant advancements in the treatment of malignant melanoma, metastatic mucosal melanoma remains a therapeutic challenge due to its complex pathogenesis, distinct pathological characteristics, and limited response to immunotherapy. Combining different immunotherapeutic approaches offers a potential strategy to address these challenges. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy and oncolytic virus therapy represent promising treatment modalities that may synergize with each other.

Patient and methods

We present a case of a 48-year-old woman with metastatic sinonasal mucosal melanoma who achieved a durable complete pathological response following treatment with multiple injections of the oncolytic virus TILT-123 (igrelimogene litadenorepvec) and a single infusion of TILs, without preconditioning chemotherapy or postconditioning interleukin-2.

Results

Immunohistochemical analysis and single-cell sequencing revealed interesting alterations in injected and noninjected tumors as well as in peripheral blood, during the treatment course, suggesting that TILT-123 facilitated TIL engraftment into the tumor, ultimately leading to a complete response.

Conclusions

This case underscores the potential of combined immunotherapeutic approaches as a promising strategy for patients with metastatic mucosal melanoma.