Evaluation of immunotherapy in the treatment of melanoma

Despite a long-standing interest in harnessing the immune system to combat melanoma, some experts believe that "immunotherapy is the treatment of tomorrow-and always will be." In some ways this belief is understandable. Research efforts have yielded many interesting scientific findings, but many experts would question whether an immunologic revolution in patient care has actually arrived. However, a small but growing group of patients who have melanoma have enjoyed dramatic benefits from immunotherapy, and similar benefits may soon be available to a larger number of patients. This article reviews the evidence for interaction between the immune system and melanoma, provides a conceptual framework for considering immunotherapy strategies, and reviews evidence of clinical benefit derived from these treatment strategies.