Immunotherapy in the Management of Esophagogastric Cancer: A Practical Review

JCO Oncol Pract. 2023 Mar;19(3):107-115. doi: 10.1200/OP.22.00226. Epub 2022 Nov 21.

Abstract

Recent data support incorporation of immune checkpoint inhibitors into the treatment armamentarium for esophageal, gastroesophageal junction, and gastric (esophagogastric) cancer. This practical review focuses on clinical trials that influenced US Food and Drug Administration approvals and treatment guidelines in esophagogastric cancer, including the impact of location, stage, histology, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 status, and PD-(L)1 expression on these guidelines. The role of immunotherapy in the locally advanced and metastatic setting is constantly expanding. Over the next few years, the many ongoing trials exploring immunotherapy are anticipated to bring new treatment regimens into the frontline setting with the potential to improve survival in patients with advanced disease.

MeSH terms

  • Esophageal Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Esophagogastric Junction / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Stomach Neoplasms* / drug therapy