[Immunmodulatory antibodies in the treatment of skin cancer].

Since the efficacy of conventional therapeutic approaches is limited in patients with solid tumors, especially melanoma, there is a need for alternatives. Because of the immunogenicity of melanoma, immunotherapeutic approaches have been widely tested. Among others, therapeutic antibodies have been used. These can be distinguished by their modus operandi, e.g. induction of cellular or complement-dependent cytotoxicity against tumor cells, or modification of immune responses. The latter can be achieved by blockage of inhibitory signal pathways or stimulation of excitatory signal pathways of immune response. We discuss the immunomodulatory antibodies which are currently in clinical testing.