Optimizing Patient Outcomes with PD-1/PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for the First-Line Treatment of Advanced...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunotherapy
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly used for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC).
• Pembrolizumab and atezolizumab are approved for first-line treatment, alone or with chemotherapy.
• Optimizing patient outcomes with ICIs requires careful consideration of various factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical evidence for ICIs in first-line aNSCLC treatment.
• To explore strategies for optimizing patient outcomes with ICIs.
• To discuss patient-specific factors, adverse effects, and cost-effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar.
• Inclusion of conference proceedings from major oncology societies (ASCO, ESMO, AACR) up to August 31, 2019.
• Review focused on clinical evidence and outcome optimization strategies.

Main Results:

• ICIs combined with chemotherapy are now standard first-line care for aNSCLC.
• Cost can be a significant barrier to ICI treatment despite potential cost-effectiveness.
• ICI adverse effect profiles differ from chemotherapy, potentially impacting long-term quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians must consider patient- and treatment-specific factors for optimal ICI therapy in aNSCLC.
• Patient-centered care is crucial when selecting therapeutic options.
• The full potential of immunotherapeutics in cancer treatment is still emerging.