Breakthrough Clinical Trial Causes Remission in Advanced Skin Cancer Patient for Over a Year

A significant advancement in skin cancer treatment has been demonstrated through a clinical trial where a patient with advanced skin cancer achieved remission that has lasted over a year. The patient, Wayne Futch, 73, from Phoenix, was diagnosed with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, a common yet potentially deadly type of skin cancer. His exposure to prolonged sunlight during a career in pool maintenance contributed to his condition. Despite wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen, the cancer disfigured his face and led to the loss of his right eye after over 60 radiation treatments failed to eradicate the tumor.

In September 2023, Mr. Futch enrolled in a novel clinical trial at HonorHealth Research Institute, testing an investigational therapy known as WTX-124. This targeted immune-therapy involves an engineered derivative of Interleukin-2 (IL-2), designed to activate only within the tumor microenvironment, thereby stimulating an immune response with reduced toxicity. The treatment resulted in a dramatic reduction of his tumor within just 8 weeks, and by the 12th week, there was no detectable cancer.

Justin Moser, M.D., an associate investigator involved in the study, emphasized that this innovative approach allows the benefits of IL-2 to be harnessed safely, with activation confined to the tumor site. The success seen in Mr. Futch offers new hope for patients with advanced or treatment-resistant skin cancers, especially those who have exhausted existing options.

This clinical trial (NCT05660384) is exploring WTX-124 both as a standalone therapy and in combination with pembrolizumab for patients with metastatic solid tumors that are resistant to standard treatments, including other immunotherapies. The promising results highlight the potential for this targeted immune approach to provide effective treatment with fewer side effects.

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma affects over a million Americans annually, with a risk of progression to advanced stages if untreated. Early detection cures are often straightforward, but systemic therapies are needed for severe cases. The incidence of this cancer has tripled over the past 30 years, largely due to increased sun exposure and better screening methods. This breakthrough may mark a significant step forward in managing difficult skin cancers, offering renewed hope for patients worldwide.