Pembrolizumab before surgery or radiation for high-risk skin SCC
Treatments studied
Part of Cancer clinical trials.
This Phase 2 trial tests pembrolizumab (an immune therapy) given before surgery to see if it can help control high-risk invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. The goal is to improve outcomes by treating cancer earlier and then following with standard surgery and radiation if needed.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You have invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) that is locally advanced (Stage II to IV) and is high-risk enough that your team recommends radiation after surgery.
- Your cancer can be fully removed with surgery (a complete resection is planned).
- You have measurable tumors on scans (or, if in a prior radiation area, the tumor has shown growth/progression).
- You are well enough to do daily activities (ECOG performance status 0 to 1) and have an estimated life expectancy over 6 months.
- You can provide a usable tissue sample for research (from a new biopsy or surgery tissue).
- You are 18+ and (if you can become pregnant) agree to pregnancy testing and reliable birth control rules during the study and for at least 120 days after the last dose.
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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