Radiotherapy and Immunotherapy Combinations for Lung Cancer

Purpose of Review Positive results from recent immunotherapy trials of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have coincided with a greater appreciation for the impact of radiation therapy (RT) on tumor immunity. Here, we summarize key clinical findings and ongoing efforts to combine immunotherapy and RT for the treatment of NSCLC. Recent Findings The role of immunotherapy for NSCLC has expanded significantly following the pivotal approvals of nivolumab and pembrolizumab for metastatic NSCLC, maintenance durvalumab in unresectable stage III NSCLC, and atezolizumab for metastatic NSCLC. Several small early-phase trials have demonstrated the ability of RT to elicit clinically significant tumor immunity. These positive findings support current trial efforts combining RT with immunotherapy for NSCLC. Recently initiated trials of RT and immunotherapy hold significant promise in expanding the therapeutic options for NSCLC. Optimization of therapy will require careful patient selection to yield meaningful improvements in clinical outcomes.

Automated summary

Recent immunotherapy trials for NSCLC have shown positive results, especially with the approval of drugs like nivolumab and pembrolizumab for metastatic NSCLC. Early trials have also demonstrated the ability of radiation therapy to induce significant tumor immunity. The combination of radiation therapy and immunotherapy holds promise for expanding treatment options for NSCLC, but careful patient selection is needed for optimal therapy outcomes.