Bone-modifying agents for non-small-cell lung cancer patients with bone metastases during the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors: A narrative review

During the course of lung cancer progression, bone metastases occur in about 40% of patients. Common complications associated with bone metastases in lung cancer patients include musculoskeletal pain, pathologic fractures, spinal cord compression, and hypercalcemia. We discuss the efficacy of bone-modifying agents (BMAs) in reducing skeletal-related events (SREs) and improving cancer-related out-comes, particularly in patients with stage IV non-small-cell lung cancer with bone metastases. In addition, the combined effects of BMAs with radiotherapy or immunotherapy in reducing SREs in patients with lung cancer and bone metastases are explored.(c) 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study discusses the common complications associated with bone metastases in lung cancer patients and the efficacy of bone-modifying agents in reducing skeletal-related events and improving outcomes. It also explores the combined effects of bone-modifying agents with radiotherapy or immunotherapy.