Study Comparing Two Treatment Approaches for Stage III Melanoma

Inclusion Criteria

• Men and women aged 16 and older.
• Good overall health with a performance status of 0 or 1, meaning fully active or restricted in physically strenuous activity but ambulatory.
• Diagnosed with Stage III melanoma that can be surgically removed, with one or more visible lymph node metastases.
• No other cancers, unless treated and with a life expectancy of more than 5 years.
• No previous treatments targeting specific immune checkpoints or genetic mutations.
• No use of immunosuppressive medications in the past 6 months, except for low-dose steroids.
• Blood tests showing adequate levels of white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and normal liver and kidney function.
• Women of childbearing age must use effective birth control during and after treatment.
• Men must use effective birth control during and after treatment if their partners are of childbearing age.
• Willingness to follow the study protocol, including attending visits and undergoing tests.
• Signed informed consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria

• Melanoma that has spread to distant parts of the body.
• Specific types of melanoma, such as those affecting the eyes or mucous membranes.
• Only having in-transit metastases without lymph node involvement.
• Active autoimmune diseases or a history of such diseases requiring treatment.
• Previous radiation therapy.
• Positive tests for hepatitis B or C, unless treated and clear for at least a year.
• Positive tests for HIV or AIDS.
• Allergies to study drugs or severe reactions to similar treatments.
• Medical conditions or infections that could complicate treatment.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Need for ongoing immunosuppressive medications.
• Recent use of other experimental drugs.
• Conditions that could interfere with following the study protocol.