How I Treat Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Refractory to Immunotherapy

Cancer J. 2020 Nov/Dec;26(6):496-501. doi: 10.1097/PPO.0000000000000482.

Abstract

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality despite continued advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Although the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors has revolutionized the treatment landscape for advanced non-small cell lung cancer, many patients either have primary resistance to these agents or eventually develop secondary resistance necessitating a change to an alternate therapy. Understanding novel patterns of response to immunotherapy is crucial in determining appropriate selection and sequencing of treatment. Chemotherapy remains the standard of care in immunotherapy-refractory disease, but multiple trials are ongoing to explore the role of combination radioimmunotherapy and rechallenging with immunotherapy either alone or in combination with other antineoplastic agents.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Lung Neoplasms* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents