Neuroendocrine tumor treatment with immunotherapy

Nowadays, immunotherapy treatment for neuroendocrine tumors uses two main approaches: passive immunotherapy (mainly antibodies and cytokines) and active immunotherapy (primarily immune cells and vaccines). The main goal of both methods is to activate the patient’s immune system and help it to fight against cancer. Immunotherapy can be used as a primary treatment method and as a part of combined therapy. It often becomes a method of choice for patients with severe, high-grade tumors or metastatic lesions who already try other treatment approaches. Many medications are available for NETs immunotherapy, including Toripalimab, Spartalizumab, Pembrolizumab, Ipilimumab, and Nivolumab. Still, the histological type, stage, and other tumor features determine the best drug for immunotherapy. Also, a few medications might often be used simultaneously during a patient’s immunotherapy treatment. A single course of immunotherapy might take up to 8 procedures. On average, up to 6-10 cycles of immunotherapy might be required before the patient will see a positive impact. Most drugs are delivered via intravenous injections, but oral administrative forms might also be available. A single procedure might require up to a few hours, and some post-procedure care is also necessary.