Page Contents
Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, which can sometimes be hidden from the body’s natural defenses. The main way immunotherapy is different from other treatments, like chemotherapy or radiation, is that it strengthens the body’s own ability to fight cancer versus directly destroying cancer cells.
Immunotherapy uses special medications, like immune checkpoint inhibitors, that target specific proteins in the body. These proteins can act as "brakes" on the immune system, preventing it from attacking cancer. By removing them, immunotherapy allows the body’s own immune system to work more effectively against the cancer cells. Immunotherapy may be used alone or with chemotherapy, in clinical trials or with other treatments.
Lung Cancer Care Tailored to You
You and your family are our top priority. At Fred Hutch Cancer Center, we offer comprehensive and compassionate care — personalized to you. You'll have access to the latest treatment options, clinical trials and supportive care services.
One of the major breakthroughs in lung cancer treatment happened in 2015, when the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first immunotherapy to treat a group of lung cancer patients.
Today, immunotherapy is a treatment option for some patients with advanced stages of lung cancer or cases where surgery isn’t possible. It is mostly used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Most lung cancer immunotherapy relies on immune checkpoint inhibitors.
New Possibilities for Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
Joseph Hiatt, MD, PhD, is a physician-scientist in the Fred Hutch lab of lung cancer researcher David MacPherson, PhD, who is working hard to find more ways for immune checkpoint inhibitors to help patients with SCLC.
Why Choose Fred Hutch for Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer
Fred Hutch physicians and researchers are on the leading edge when it comes to lung cancer treatment and research, and continue to explore new ways to treat this disease using immunotherapy.
In fact, the two leading forms of immunotherapy, cellular immunotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors, were evaluated at Fred Hutch in clinical trials.
Several immunotherapy drugs have been FDA-approved for lung cancer. Fred Hutch offers:
- Atezolizumab
- Bevacizumab
- Pembrolizumab
- Nivolumab
Side effects of immunotherapy for lung cancer can vary, but common ones include extreme tiredness, nausea or loss of appetite, skin irritation, cough and diarrhea. In some cases, a patient might have a reaction to the infusion, which is similar to an allergic reaction and might include chills, fever or a rash. There are other problems that might occur, where the body’s autoimmune system reacts to the immunotherapy. If you experience any side effects, you should talk to your provider right away so they can help you manage them.
Before starting immunotherapy, discuss any allergies or health conditions or concerns with your provider. While you are being treated, drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet and tell your care team about any side effects you may have, so they can help you manage them.
Each person responds differently to their treatment. The success rates for immunotherapy depend on several factors, like the type and stage of lung cancer a person has. The type of medication used also has an impact.