Fianlimab is a medication being studied for its potential to help the immune system fight cancer. It works by blocking a specific protein called LAG-3, which can slow down the immune system’s ability to attack cancer cells. By blocking this protein, fianlimab may help the immune system work better in finding and destroying cancer cells, particularly in patients who have had surgery to remove melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

Cemiplimab is another medication used in this trial that helps the immune system target and destroy cancer cells. It is known as an immune checkpoint inhibitor, which means it helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Cemiplimab is used in combination with fianlimab to see if the two medications together can improve outcomes for patients with high-risk melanoma after surgery.

Pembrolizumab is a medication that is already used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma. It also works as an immune checkpoint inhibitor, helping the immune system to better identify and attack cancer cells. In this trial, pembrolizumab is being used as a comparison to see if the combination of fianlimab and cemiplimab is more effective in preventing the return of melanoma after surgery.

Melanoma – Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in the melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. It often begins as a mole that changes in size, shape, or color, but it can also appear on skin that looks normal. As melanoma progresses, it can grow deeper into the skin and spread to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes and internal organs. The disease is known for its ability to metastasize, or spread, rapidly if not detected early. Melanoma can occur on any skin surface, but it is more common in areas exposed to the sun, such as the back, legs, arms, and face. Early detection and monitoring of changes in the skin are crucial in managing the progression of melanoma.