Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer

To make an appointment, please call 1-855-702-8222.
Types of Immunotherapy
Lung cancer patients can benefit from several types of immunotherapy, which work in different ways to treat tumors:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are used to treat certain non-small cell lung cancers. These medicines block certain “checkpoint” proteins (called PD-L1 proteins) that cancer cells use to “switch off” the body’s immune response. With the immune system “switched on,” disease-fighting T-cells can attack, shrink or destroy tumor cells. Examples of checkpoint inhibitors for lung cancer include:
- Pembrolizumab
- Nivolumab
- Atezolizumab
- Durvalumab
These checkpoint inhibitors can be given with or instead of chemotherapy. They can also be combined with radiation therapy or surgery.
Bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) are immunotherapy drugs that help cancer-fighting T-cells bind to cancer cells. One BiTE that has been approved to treat an aggressive type of small cell lung cancer is tarlatamab. UChicago Medicine’s experts can help you start this medication if you have been told by your oncologist that they cannot administer it to you.
Other forms of immunotherapy are being tested in clinical trials right here at UChicago Medicine. One therapy under investigation is CAR T-cell therapy for non-small cell lung cancer and other types of cancer.
Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Immunotherapy
When immunotherapy is used before surgery or radiation, this is called neoadjuvant immunotherapy. For example, if you have non-small cell lung cancer, you may receive neoadjuvant immunotherapy with chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgery or radiation. This increases the likelihood of successful treatment.
If you have early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, you may receive immunotherapy after surgery or radiation. This is called adjuvant immunotherapy. The goal is to kill any microscopic cancer cells that may be present in your body and to prevent cancer from returning.
Some patients with lung cancer may receive both neoadjuvant and adjuvant immunotherapy (treatment before and after surgery). When you come to UChicago Medicine, our expert lung cancer team will work together to design a comprehensive treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Clinical Trials of Immunotherapies for Lung Cancer
Our physician-researchers have led the way in studying immunotherapies for all types of cancer, including lung cancer. We continue to offer the most promising immunotherapies in our clinical trials. This often includes many immunotherapies that are not available at other cancer centers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lung Cancer Immunotherapy
Some patients with lung cancer have an excellent, long-term response to immunotherapy. But others may not respond as strongly. At UChicago Medicine, we will carefully evaluate your case to determine which immunotherapies may offer you the best chances for a successful treatment.
Like other lung cancer treatments, immunotherapy can have side effects, although they affect each person differently. Some common side effects include:
- Tiredness
- Rash
- Shortness of breath
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Flu-like symptoms
The most serious complication of immunotherapy is inflammation in your organs, such as your liver. Our team is skilled at managing complications from immunotherapy treatment and has developed special protocols to manage toxicity if it occurs. Our supportive oncology team also provides help with nutrition and other assistance to help you manage side effects from treatment.
UChicago Medicine is one of only two hospitals in Illinois to be designated a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute, as well as one of the country’s top-ranked cancer programs. We also offer second opinions if you want to know more about the different immunotherapies available to treat your lung cancer.
Clinical Trial Helps Patient with Stage 4 Lung Cancer

Understanding Lung Cancer
Request an Appointment
We are currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries, leading to delayed response times. For faster assistance, please call 1-855-702-8222 to schedule your appointment.
If you have symptoms of an urgent nature, please call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.
For Referring Physicians
To refer a patient for lung cancer care, please call UCM Physician Connect at 1-800-824-2282.
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