Evolving immunotherapy strategies in urothelial cancer

Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book. 2015:e284-90. doi: 10.14694/EdBook_AM.2015.35.e284.

Abstract

The treatment of nonmuscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma with bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) represents the importance of immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer. Despite its clinical efficacy, up to 30% of patients will ultimately experience progression to muscle-invasive disease. This, along with an improved understanding of the biologic pathways involved, has led to efforts to improve, enhance, or alter the immune response in the treatment of urothelial carcinoma. A number of novel therapeutic approaches currently are being pursued, including recombinant BCG to induce T helper type 1 (Th1) immune responses, nonlive Mycobacterium agents, targeted agents toward cancer-associated antigens, immune-modulating vaccines, and adoptive T-cell therapies. Here, we review the current and future immunotherapy treatment options for patients with urothelial cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • BCG Vaccine / therapeutic use
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • BCG Vaccine
  • Cytokines