Formal discussant Stefania Scala, MD, of the Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale, Naples, was impressed by the findings of KEYNOTE-629. “The second interim analysis for the locally advanced disease cohort and updated data for the recurrent/metastatic disease cohort of KEYNOTE-629 had brilliant and exciting results,” she said.

Stefania Scala, MD

“Objective responses of 50% in the locally advanced disease cohort and 35.2% in the recurrent/metastatic disease cohort and disease control rates of 64.8% and 52.4%, respectively, provide solid and convincing evidence for the use of pembrolizumab in this patient population,” she stated.

She suggested that further study could focus on the role of radiotherapy in improving the immune response and preventing resistant mechanisms targeting the tumor. She also noted that the roles of the cellular microenvironment and cytochemokines might be considered. 

DISCLOSURE: Dr. Scala reported no conflicts of interest.