Chemotherapy plus single/double immunotherapy in the treatment of non-oncogene addicted advanced non-small cell lung cancer: where do we stand and where are we going?

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Chemo-immunotherapy combinations have revolutionized our treatment algorithm with respect to naïve advanced NSCLC; however, given the great number of developed and approved combinations, the question arises as to which combinations provide the best efficacy and safety. AREAS COVERED This review assesses and discusses the available data concerning chemo-immunotherapy combinations in the treatment of naïve advanced NSCLC, as well as presenting the most promising data involving combinations currently under investigation. EXPERT OPINION Pembrolizumab-containing chemo-immunotherapy combinations are associated with the most mature data available and presently represent the standard treatment in clinical practice in naïve advanced NSCLC-affected patients. The nivolumab plus ipilimumab plus short-course chemotherapy combination, more recently approved by regulatory agencies, is an appealing alternative, thanks to the reduced rate of grade 3-5 TRAEs and the limited chemotherapy administration. The new chemo-immunotherapy combinations currently under investigation will help us to better identify both the best immune checkpoints to target and the most effective combinations to administer.