Immune checkpoint inhibitors
These agents act on regulatory pathways that restrain immune activity, which can allow an immune response against tumour cells.
Immunotherapy
Treatment that acts on immune regulation.
Immunotherapy has changed treatment in several cancers. Its role is specific rather than universal, and it carries a distinct pattern of side effects that requires structured monitoring.
What it involves
What immunotherapy involves.
Cancer-specific indications
Where immunotherapy is established differs by cancer type, subtype, stage and line of treatment. It is not an option in every cancer.
Biomarker context
Markers such as PD-L1 expression, microsatellite instability or tumour mutational burden may inform the discussion, but none of them alone determines treatment.
Immune-related adverse effects
Because the mechanism is immune-mediated, side effects can involve the skin, gut, thyroid, liver, lungs and other organs, and can appear late.
Monitoring requirements
Structured clinical review and laboratory monitoring are part of treatment, and new symptoms are assessed promptly rather than assumed to be unrelated.
Combination approaches
Immunotherapy is sometimes combined with chemotherapy or targeted treatment, depending on the cancer and the evidence available for that setting.
If you are receiving immunotherapy and develop new or worsening symptoms, contact your treating team promptly. Immune-related effects are managed by clinicians and are not something to assess from a website.
Related
Related information
Discuss immunotherapy options for your diagnosis.
Whether immunotherapy is relevant depends on the cancer type, biomarker findings and clinical assessment.