Current Roles of Neoadjuvant and Perioperative Immunotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Olivia Fankuchen1, Salman Punekar2, Vamsidhar Velcheti3
1New York Presbyterian-Cornel, New York, NY.
JCO Oncology Practice
|June 29, 2026
Summary
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) improve survival in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients undergoing surgery. This review covers approved immunotherapies for neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative settings, discussing evidence and future directions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated efficacy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- Early-stage NSCLC patients eligible for surgical resection may benefit from perioperative immunotherapies.
- ICIs can enhance antitumor responses and improve perioperative outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review currently approved immunotherapies for neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative treatment of resectable NSCLC.
- To summarize the supporting evidence for the approval of these immunotherapies.
- To discuss data gaps and future clinical research areas for optimizing survival outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of approved immunotherapies for resectable NSCLC.
- Analysis of clinical trial data supporting immunotherapy approvals.
- Discussion of evidence for neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative use.
Main Results:
- ICIs are approved for various perioperative settings in resectable NSCLC.
- Evidence supports improved survival and perioperative outcomes with ICI use.
- Specific immunotherapies and their supporting data are detailed.
Conclusions:
- Perioperative immunotherapies represent a significant advancement in treating resectable NSCLC.
- Further research is needed to address data gaps and maximize long-term survival.
- Optimizing the use of ICIs in the perioperative setting is crucial for patient outcomes.
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