Palliative extracranial radiotherapy in patients receiving immunotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer: a narrative review

Abstract

Background and Objective: Role of radiotherapy (RT) in the era of immuno-oncology (IO) in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is rapidly changing. RT is not only intended for addressing palliation symptoms but also is considered as a potential tool potentializing an immunogenic effect of given drugs.However, the best timing, techniques, doses, volumes, and its use for asymptomatic patients is a subject of research. We performed a review on the role of palliative RT schedules in combination with IO for advanced NSCLC. Indications in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, outcomes, toxicity, and possible developments are discussed.Methods: A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE and PubMed databases and clinicaltrials.gov using the keywords 'lung cancer' AND "immunotherapy" AND 'radiotherapy' OR "palliative radiotherapy".