Neoadjuvant, Perioperative, and Adjuvant Immunotherapy in Early-Stage Surgically Resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Updates and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Historically, systemic therapy for resectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been associated with a modest impact on overall survival. The current treatment options for early-stage resectable NSCLC include neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy. In this review, we explore the current treatment paradigms and emerging opportunities for improved survival outcomes from using immunotherapeutic approaches in the treatment of early-stage resectable NSCLC. The incorporation of immunotherapy into neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative treatment of surgically resectable NSCLC has yielded improved outcomes beyond chemotherapy-alone approaches. Despite this, there remains a margin for improving survival outcomes for patients. Clinical trials utilizing novel agents and approaches that modulate the anti-tumor immune response are currently ongoing and will likely inform the future treatment landscape for early-stage surgically resectable NSCLC.