Immunotherapy Management in Special Cancer Patient Populations

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• Checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) therapy is a cornerstone in cancer treatment.
• Limited data exist on CPI therapy efficacy and safety in complex patient subgroups.
• These subgroups include those with autoimmune disorders, comorbidities, poor performance status, advanced age, and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review available data on CPI therapy in complex cancer patient populations.
• To provide clinical recommendations for managing these patients with CPI therapy.

Main Methods:

• Review of retrospective data and cohort series.
• Analysis of safety and efficacy of CPI therapy in specific patient subgroups.

Main Results:

• Retrospective data suggest that patients with autoimmune disorders, comorbidities, poor performance status, advanced age, and COVID-19 can safely receive CPI therapy.
• These complex patient subgroups may benefit from CPI therapy.

Conclusions:

• CPI therapy can be safely administered to complex cancer patients.
• Clinical recommendations are offered for managing these unique patient populations with CPI therapy.