Cancer treatment reviews
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Cancer treatment reviews · Apr 2018
ReviewBreaking the biomarker code: PD-L1 expression and checkpoint inhibition in advanced NSCLC.
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death among males and the second leading cause among females globally. Checkpoint inhibitors re-engage the immune system to fight cancer. This review evaluates phase III data on the use of checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of advanced NSCLC and addresses PD-L1 expression in predicting efficacy. ⋯ Checkpoint inhibitors represent a major advance in the treatment of advanced NSCLC and PD-L1 status can inform treatment decisions.
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Cancer treatment reviews · Apr 2018
ReviewImmuno-oncology in head and neck squamous cell cancers: News from clinical trials, emerging predictive factors and unmet needs.
According to the new determinants of cancer immunity, head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) has to be considered as an immunogenic tumor for the relatively high number of somatic mutations giving rise to neoantigens recognized by T cell. HNSCC develop at a significant rate despite the antitumoral immune response indicating the existence of effective escape mechanisms. The lack of antigen presentation or co-stimulatory molecules required and immunosuppressive phenomena established by the tumor or the host microenvironment impair immune-mediated recognition and cancer control. ⋯ However, the strategies for the rational and evidence-based combinations to maximize clinical benefit are only starting to emerge. In this view, knowing in depth the specific properties of HNSCC and the underlying immunological conditions of the bearing hosts is an essential step. The role of immune system in the development and the management of HNSCC, the main mechanisms of tumor escape and the most recent results from clinical trials will be discussed herein.