Efficacy and toxicity profile of first-line treatment for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer: A Bayesian network

Guo Lin1,2, Zhuoran Yao1,2, Kai Kang1,2

  • 1Thoracic Oncology Ward, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.

Cancer Medicine
|March 23, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The best treatment for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) is PD-(L)1 inhibitors with chemotherapy (etoposide/cisplatin). This combination offers superior survival and response rates, though specific toxicities require attention.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunotherapy
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Efficacy and toxicity of treatments for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) remain unclear.
  • A Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted to address this knowledge gap.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the efficacy and toxicity of various treatment strategies for ES-SCLC.
  • To identify optimal treatment regimens based on progression-free survival, overall survival, and response rates.

Main Methods:

  • Network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing PD-(L)1 inhibitors, CTLA-4 inhibitors, chemotherapy, and combinations.
  • Pooled estimations of progression-free survival, overall survival, objective response rate, and toxicity were performed.

Main Results:

  • PD-(L)1 inhibitor combined with etoposide/cisplatin (EP) demonstrated superior progression-free and overall survival.
  • Adding a CTLA-4 inhibitor (ipilimumab) to EP yielded the highest response rate.
  • Chemotherapy (irinotecan) with cisplatin/carboplatin showed the best safety profile regarding systematic toxicity.

Conclusions:

  • EP combined with PD-(L)1 inhibitors is a highly effective and safe treatment for ES-SCLC.
  • Individual treatment regimens possess distinct toxicity profiles that warrant careful consideration.

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