First in the world melanoma trial to breakthrough barriers

The BETTER trial will investigate whether a specific combination of immunotherapy drugs and targeted radiotherapy can improve outcomes for patients with melanoma brain metastases, who often have a poor prognosis and short life expectancy.

Dr Malaka Ameratunga, head of Molecular Oncology and Rare Cancers at The Alfred and co-chair of the trial, said the research could represent a significant breakthrough for patients previously considered too unwell to participate in trials.

“Melanoma that spreads to the brain occurs in more than a third of patients with an advanced melanoma diagnosis,” Dr Ameratunga said.

“This trial is particularly significant because melanoma that spreads to the brain is so severe and complex that many patients are unable to participate in clinical trials, resulting in limited treatment options.”

Dr Ameratunga said that current treatment for melanoma brain metastases include the use of immuno-suppressing steroids, which may result in uncomfortable and significant long-term side effects for patients.

“With this trial, we’re not just hoping to shrink the tumours; we’re hoping to offer a much better quality of life for patients while they undergo treatment, which is really important too.

“We know that the best way to establish better ways to treat this deadly disease is through clinical trials and research, and that’s the big goal here.”

The trial will run concurrently at Westmead Hospital in Sydney, and is supported by Melanoma and Skin Cancer Trials and funded by a $210,000 donation from the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation.

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