Neoadjuvant Nivolumab and Relatlimab in Merkel Cell Carcinoma

This trial is studying whether giving immunotherapy drugs nivolumab (anti-PD-1) and relatlimab (anti-LAG-3) before surgery can shrink Merkel cell carcinoma tumors and improve surgical and long-term outcomes. Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer. This neoadjuvant (pre-surgery) approach aims to boost the immune system's ability to fight the cancer before it is removed. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 years or older - You have been confirmed to have resectable (surgically removable) Merkel cell carcinoma, stage I (≥ 10 mm), IIA, IIB, or III - You have measurable disease on imaging and are in good health (ECOG 0–1) - You have a life expectancy of more than 12 months **You may NOT be eligible if...** - Your cancer has spread to distant organs - You have had prior immunotherapy (anti-PD-1, CTLA-4, PD-L1, or LAG-3 antibodies) - You have an active autoimmune disease or are on significant immunosuppressive therapy - You are known to be HIV positive or have active hepatitis B or C - You are pregnant or breastfeeding - You have serious heart disease including active myocarditis Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.