A Distinct Pretreatment Immune Gene Signature in Lentigo Maligna Is Associated with Imiquimod Response

Abstract

Lentigo maligna (LM) is a common subtype of in situ melanoma on chronically sun-exposed skin, particularly the head and neck of older patients. Although surgery is the standard treatment, there is associated morbidity, and options such as imiquimod cream or radiotherapy may be used if surgery is refused or inappropriate. Complete response rates following imiquimod treatment are variable in the literature. The aim of this study was to evaluate the host immune response both before and following treatment with imiquimod to better identify likely responders. Paired pre- and post-imiquimod treatment specimens were available for 27 patients. Patients were treated with imiquimod 5 days per week for..