Immune checkpoint inhibition: a future guided by radiology

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Cancer immune cells often have limited function, allowing tumors to survive.
• Immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) has transformed cancer treatment but has untapped potential.
• Combining locoregional therapies with ICI is a promising area in medical oncology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in novel functional imaging techniques for immuno-oncology.
• To explore the integration of these techniques into personalized cancer treatment algorithms.
• To emphasize the need for updated imaging criteria for clinical decision-making and prognosis.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of state-of-the-art advances in novel functional imaging.
• Review of both pre-clinical and clinical applications in immuno-oncology.
• Exploration of quantitative approaches for optimizing treatment decisions.

Main Results:

• Growing "imaging toolbox" allows for refined tumor characterization and response evaluation.
• Novel imaging techniques, including metabolite labeling and immune checkpoint screening, are advancing.
• Personalized treatment algorithms incorporating advanced imaging are foreseeable.

Conclusions:

• Integrating novel imaging with ICI offers potential for improved cancer therapy.
• Updated standardized imaging criteria are crucial for guiding treatment and prognosis.
• Assessing and optimizing each radiological advancement ensures optimal patient care and efficacy.