JTO Clinical and Research Reports (Jan 2023)

Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Metastatic NSCLC After Discontinuation of Immunotherapy Because of Immune-Related Adverse Effects

  • Lysanne A. Lievense, MD, PhD,
  • Peter Heukels, MD, PhD,
  • Nico C. van Walree, MD,
  • Cor H. van der Leest, MD, PhD

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 4, no. 1
p. 100441

Abstract

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Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) is an important treatment modality in metastatic NSCLC and management of immunotherapy-related adverse effects (irAEs) can be challenging. Retreatment after discontinuation of ICI because of irAEs is a frequent clinical dilemma with limited available data. Methods: This single-center retrospective observational study reviewed the clinical course of 30 patients with metastatic NSCLC in whom ICI had to be discontinued owing to a serious irAE after an initial objective response to therapy. Results: After ICI discontinuation, 14 patients (47%) developed a durable response of more than 6 months, seven patients (23%) developed oligoprogression treated with local radiotherapy leading to disease control, six patients (20%) had progression of disease within 6 months, and three patients (10%) died owing to a severe irAE. Conclusions: A watchful waiting approach is justified after discontinuation of ICI owing to irAEs in patients with metastatic NSCLC with an initial response to therapy.

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