Avelumab + Radiation Therapy for Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Not currently recruiting at 6 trial locations

Overseen By Christoper Barker, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Phase 2

Sponsor: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Must be taking: aPD1 monotherapy

Must not be taking: Chemotherapy, Anti-arrhythmics, Corticosteroids

Disqualifiers: Pregnancy, CNS metastases, Cardiovascular disease, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Prior Safety Data This treatment has passed at least one previous human trial

Breakthrough Therapy This drug has been fast-tracked for approval by the FDA given its high promise

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

Duration: Up to 2 years

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial explores a new treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare skin cancer, using a combination of radiation therapy and the immunotherapy drug avelumab. The researchers aim to determine if this combination helps when the cancer has spread and surgery isn't an option. Individuals with MCC that has worsened after initial treatment with certain drugs, but who haven't received chemotherapy for MCC, might be suitable candidates for this trial. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.

Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?

The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on systemic corticosteroids or treatment for Hepatitis B or C, you may need to stop or adjust those medications. Please consult with the trial team for specific guidance.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on certain medications like systemic corticosteroids or treatments for infections like Hepatitis B or C, you may need to discuss this with the trial team.

Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?

Research shows that avelumab, a type of immunotherapy, is generally well-tolerated by people with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Common side effects include tiredness, muscle and bone pain, and infusion reactions, but these are usually manageable.

Comprehensive Ablative Radiation Therapy (CART) is a targeted form of radiation treatment. When combined with avelumab, it has proven safe for people whose MCC has worsened. Studies indicate that adding radiation to avelumab treatment can be effective without causing significant new safety issues.

In summary, both treatments have a safety record that supports their use in MCC. However, as with all treatments, individual reactions can vary, so discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider is important. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?

Researchers are excited about using avelumab with radiation therapy for Merkel Cell Carcinoma because this combination could offer a more comprehensive attack on cancer cells. While avelumab is an immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system recognize and fight cancer cells, combining it with radiation can enhance its effectiveness by directly damaging cancer DNA and boosting the immune response. This dual approach could potentially improve outcomes compared to standard treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation alone. Additionally, avelumab's ability to be administered intravenously every two weeks makes it a convenient option for patients, possibly leading to better adherence and quality of life.

What evidence suggests that Avelumab and Radiation Therapy could be effective for Merkel cell carcinoma?

Research has shown that avelumab effectively treats Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). One study found that avelumab led to high response rates, with many patients experiencing long-lasting improvements. Another report highlighted its safety and effectiveness, even for patients with weakened immune systems. Comprehensive Ablative Radiation Therapy (CART) also shows promise, with patients often staying in remission for at least a year and survival rates of 60-70% over two years. In this trial, participants will receive both avelumab and CART, offering a strong potential treatment for MCC, especially when previous treatments have not worked. ^{5 6 7 8 9}

Who Is on the Research Team?

Christoper Barker, MD

Principal Investigator

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for adults with advanced Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) that has worsened after first-line treatment and can't be surgically removed. Participants must have had prior therapy with aPD1 monotherapy, adequate organ function, and all MCC sites treatable by radiation. Exclusions include other cancer treatments, brain metastases, certain infections or immunosuppression conditions, recent vaccinations, severe allergies to avelumab, or significant heart disease.

Inclusion Criteria

Your blood counts need to be within certain ranges: lymphocytes above 800/mm^3, neutrophils above 1500/mm^3, platelets above 75,000/mm^3, white blood cells above 3000/mm^3, and hemoglobin above 9 g/dL.

My kidneys work well enough (creatinine clearance ≥ 30 mL/min).

Able to provide valid written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria

I am HIV positive.

I have received treatments other than first-line aPD1 monotherapy for my MCC.

I am currently being treated for Hepatitis B or C.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants receive avelumab every 2 weeks and comprehensive ablative radiation therapy (CART) is initiated between the first and second dose of Avelumab

Up to 2 years

Bi-weekly visits for avelumab administration

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment

12 weeks

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Avelumab
• Comprehensive Ablative Radiation Therapy

Trial Overview The study is examining the effectiveness of combining comprehensive ablative radiation therapy (CART) with the immunotherapy drug avelumab in treating MCC. Researchers aim to determine if CART enhances the effects of avelumab in patients whose disease progressed after initial treatment.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Avelumab and Radiation Therapy Experimental Treatment 2 Interventions

Will receive avelumab at the FDA approved dose and schedule of 800 mg IV over 60 minutes (+20 minutes / -10 minutes) every 2 weeks (+/- 3 days) until treatment intolerance or disease progression occurs or 2 years of study therapy have been administered; standard of care Avelumab therapy after 2 years is permitted. Comprehensive Ablative Radiation Therapy (CART) will be initiated between the first and second dose of Avelumab. Comprehensive ablative radiation therapy will be given according to guidelines.

Avelumab is already approved in European Union, United States, Japan for the following indications:

Approved in European Union as Bavencio for:

• Merkel cell carcinoma
• Renal cell carcinoma
• Urothelial carcinoma

Approved in United States as Bavencio for:

• Merkel cell carcinoma
• Renal cell carcinoma
• Urothelial carcinoma

Approved in Japan as Bavencio for:

• Merkel cell carcinoma
• Renal cell carcinoma
• Urothelial carcinoma

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Lead Sponsor

Trials

1,998

Recruited

602,000+

EMD Serono

Industry Sponsor

Trials

147

Recruited

27,800+

Dr. Shepard

EMD Serono

Chief Medical Officer since 2021

MD from University of Cincinnati Medical School, Fellowships in Hematology and Oncology at University of Chicago Hospitals and Clinics

Miguel Fernández Alcalde

EMD Serono

Chief Executive Officer

Bachelor's Degree in Pharmacy from the University Complutense in Madrid, MBA from the University of Alcalá de Henares, Master's Degree in Management from IESE Business School

Published Research Related to This Trial

Avelumab is a monoclonal antibody that effectively treats metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), showing an objective response rate of 31.8% in a phase II trial with 88 previously treated patients, including 10 complete responses.

The treatment demonstrated a median overall survival of 12.9 months and a 1-year progression-free survival rate of 30%, with manageable side effects, making it a promising alternative to traditional chemotherapy for MCC.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Avelumab: A Review of Its Application in Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Joseph, J., Zobniw, C., Davis, J., et al.[2020]

Avelumab, a PD-L1 inhibitor, has shown overall response rates for advanced Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) ranging from 29.1% to 72.1% in real-world studies, with median progression-free survival between 8.1 to 24.1 months, indicating its efficacy across diverse populations.

The treatment is generally safe, with common side effects including fatigue and infusion-related reactions, and it appears to be particularly effective in immunosuppressed patients, although further research is needed to evaluate long-term safety and efficacy.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Avelumab for Advanced Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Global Real-World Data on Patient Response and Survival. Lohray, R., Verma, KK., Wang, LL., et al.[2023]

Avelumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor used for treating Merkel cell carcinoma, can lead to rare but severe neurological adverse effects, as demonstrated in a case of a 70-year-old man who developed diplopia and later severe demyelinating polyneuropathy after treatment.

The neurological complications observed in this patient were refractory to multiple immune suppressive treatments, highlighting the need for awareness of potential severe side effects associated with avelumab therapy.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Severe Demyelinating Polyneuropathy and Cranial Neuropathy During Avelumab Treatment of Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Bilić, H., Sitaš, B., Hančević, M., et al.[2021]

In a phase II trial involving 116 patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (mMCC), first-line treatment with avelumab resulted in a 39.7% objective response rate and a 30.2% durable response rate, indicating its efficacy in this aggressive skin cancer.

The treatment was generally well-tolerated, with 81% of patients experiencing treatment-related adverse events, but only 18.1% had severe (grade 3/4) events, and there were no treatment-related deaths, highlighting its safety profile.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

First-line avelumab in a cohort of 116 patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (JAVELIN Merkel 200): primary and biomarker analyses of a phase II study. D'Angelo, SP., Lebbé, C., Mortier, L., et al.[2022]

In a real-world study of 54 patients with advanced Merkel cell carcinoma (aMCC) treated with the immune checkpoint inhibitor avelumab, the response rate was 57%, with 24% achieving a complete response, indicating significant efficacy.

The median overall survival was 25.8 months, and only 11% of patients experienced grade 3 toxicity, suggesting that avelumab is not only effective but also has a manageable safety profile in clinical practice.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Avelumab for advanced Merkel cell carcinoma in the Netherlands: a real-world cohort. Levy, S., Aarts, MJB., Eskens, FALM., et al.[2021]

In a study of 8 patients with oligoprogressive metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (mMCC) undergoing radiotherapy while on avelumab, the addition of radiotherapy resulted in a high objective response rate of 75% and significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) after treatment, with 60% of patients remaining progression-free at 1 year.

No significant treatment-related toxicities were observed, indicating that combining radiotherapy with immunotherapy is a safe approach for managing limited progression in mMCC patients.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Introducing Radiotherapy in Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma Patients with Limited Progression on Avelumab: An Effective Step against Primary and Secondary Immune Resistance? Ferini, G., Zagardo, V., Critelli, P., et al.[2023]

Avelumab is the first approved treatment specifically for metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), showing significant efficacy with about one-third of chemotherapy-refractory patients responding positively, and 74% of these responses lasting at least 12 months.

In a separate cohort of chemotherapy-naïve patients, avelumab demonstrated an impressive objective response rate of over 60%, while maintaining a manageable safety profile despite some risk of immune-related adverse events.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Avelumab: A Review in Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Shirley, M.[2020]

In a study of 88 patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (mMCC) treated with avelumab, the objective response rate was 33%, with a median duration of response lasting 40.5 months, indicating significant long-term efficacy.

The long-term safety profile of avelumab was favorable, with no new adverse events reported and no treatment-related deaths, supporting its use as a standard treatment for mMCC.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Avelumab in patients with previously treated metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma: long-term data and biomarker analyses from the single-arm phase 2 JAVELIN Merkel 200 trial. D'Angelo, SP., Bhatia, S., Brohl, AS., et al.[2021]

Citations

1. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9394192/

Real-world clinical outcomes with avelumab in patients with ... This real-world study of patients with advanced MCC demonstrated that avelumab treatment resulted in a high response rate with durable responses and prolonged ...

2. bavencio.com bavencio.com/en_US/patients-and-caregivers/mcc-home/clinical-study-results.html

Clinical Study Results | BAVENCIO® (avelumab) Efficacy The most common side effects of BAVENCIO in people with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) include: feeling tired; muscle and bone pain; infusion-related reactions ...

3. merkelcell.org merkelcell.org/news-and-publications/2025/real-world-safety-and-effectiveness-of-avelumab-in-immune-compromised-ic-and-non-ic-patients-with-merkel-cell-carcinoma-mcc-results-from-a-prospective-german-registry-mcc-trim/

Real-world safety and effectiveness of avelumab in immune ... Real-world safety and effectiveness of avelumab in immune-compromised (IC) and non-IC patients with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC): Results from a ...

4. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9536833/

Avelumab for the treatment of metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma Serious treatment-related adverse events were reported in 5 patients (6%), but no grade 4 adverse events or treatment-related deaths were reported. Preliminary ...

5. clinicaltrials.gov clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03271372

NCT03271372 | Adjuvant Avelumab in Merkel Cell Cancer This randomized phase III trial studies how well avelumab works in treating patients with Merkel cell cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes and have ...

6. bavencio.com bavencio.com/en_US/hcp/mcc-home/safety-profile.html

Merkel Cell Carcinoma Safety Profile Find the BAVENCIO® (avelumab) safety profile, including adverse reactions & dose modifications for metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma.

7. fda.gov fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/avelumab-bavencio

Avelumab (BAVENCIO) This is the first FDA-approved product to treat this type of cancer. Approval was based on data from an open-label, single-arm, multi-center ...

8. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34715570/

Avelumab in patients with previously treated metastatic Merkel ... Avelumab monotherapy resulted in meaningful long-term OS in patients with mMCC whose disease had progressed following chemotherapy.

9. bavencio.com bavencio.com/en_US/patients-and-caregivers/mcc-home/safety-information.html

Merkel Cell Carcinoma Safety Profile The most common side effects of BAVENCIO in people with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) include: feeling tired; muscle and bone pain; infusion-related reactions ...