| Popis: |
Introduction: Both pembrolizumab and nivolumab have been established as valid options in second line treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, a direct comparison between them has yet not been performed. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine difference of efficacy and immune-related toxicity between pemrolizumab and nivolumab in second and further line therapy of NSCLC. Methods: Patients who received second and further line immunotherapy with either pembrolizumab or nivolumab in our hospital from January 2017 until January 2020 were retrospectively included in the study. Data collected included demographics, response rate, duration of response and toxicity. Results: Sample consisted of 196 patients (75% men) with mean age 66.7 years (SD=9.4). 46 patients (23.5%) were treated with pembrolizumab and 150 (76.5%) with nivolumab. Demographic data were similar between the two groups (p>0.05). Overall response rate was 59.1% with pembrolizumab and 50% with nivolumab, with a similar median duration of response (19 months for pembrolizumab and 25 months for nivolumab, p=0.275). The proportion of patients experiencing any kind of immune-related toxicity was also similar (36.4% vs. 31.1%, p=0.511). Additionally, no significant differences were found concerning type and grade of toxicity, toxicity-related discontinuation rate and need for corticosteroids (p>0.05). Conclusions: Our findings support that pembrolizumab and nivolumab present similar efficacy and immune-related toxicity in second and further line treatment of NSCLC. |
