Summary

In this episode of Melanoma Matters, hosts James Larkin and Sapna Patel welcome Dr. Andreas Schmitt to discuss various aspects of melanoma treatment, including the importance of supplementary data in clinical trial reports, the implications of the TRICOTEL study, and the role of PD-L1 as a biomarker. The conversation highlights the significance of peer review and academic collaboration in oncology, as well as the impact of regulatory decisions on patient treatment options. The episode concludes with a discussion on the findings of the republished TRICOTEL study and the importance of inquiry in medical practice.

Keywords

melanoma, oncology, clinical trials, PD-L1, TRICOTEL study, symptomatic brain metastasis, supplementary data, peer review, academic collaboration, cancer treatment, biomarkers

Takeaways

The importance of looking at supplementary data in clinical trials is a recurring theme in this podcast.

The TRICOTEL study revealed significant findings regarding treatment for symptomatic brain metastasis, but there was controversy over the coding of these patients as symptomatic.

Peer review and academic collaboration are crucial in addressing discrepancies in clinical data.

PD-L1 expression may not be a reliable biomarker for treatment decisions in melanoma.

Regulatory decisions can impact patient access to effective treatments.

The objective response rate in the TRICOTEL republication was lower than in the initial (retracted) report.

Inquiring and questioning data is an essential feature of an intrepid (F)ellow.

Continuous reading and inquiry are vital for oncologists to stay informed.

Sound Bites

"Why I'm an oncologist?"

"Look at the supplementaries!"

"We redesigned the SWOG S2000 study after the TRICOTEL presentation to drop the asymptomatic cohort."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Lighthearted Banter

00:30 Meet the Guests: Andreas Schmitt

01:34 Always read the Supplemental Appendix!

06:31 The TRICOTEL Controversy Unveiled

10:43 Symptomatic Cohort in TRICOTEL

18:35 Peer Review in Publications

20:20 Republication of the TRICOTEL data

22:08 Editorial(s) on PD-L1 as a Biomarker

32:38 Concluding Thoughts on PD-L1