Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors As a Treatment Option for Bladder Cancer: Current Evidence

Overview

Journal Cureus

Specialty Biomedical Engineering

Date 2023 Jul 10

PMID 37425564

Authors

Tobechukwu J Okobi

Trinitas Oserefuamen Uhomoibhi

Darlington E Akahara

Victor A Odoma

Ibilola A Sanusi

Okelue E Okobi

Ifiok Umana

Emeka Okobi

Chinwe C Okonkwo

Nkechinyere M Harry

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Bladder cancer is a prevalent disease, and treatment options for advanced bladder cancer remain limited. However, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) have shown promise in treating bladder cancer. These drugs work by blocking receptors and ligands, disrupting signaling, and allowing T cells to recognize and attack cancer cells. ICIs have been found to be effective in treating bladder cancer, especially in cases of metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) that have progressed after chemotherapy. Furthermore, combination therapy with ICIs and chemotherapy or radiation therapy has shown promise in treating bladder cancer. While there are challenges associated with ICIs, including adverse effects, immune-related adverse events, and lack of efficacy in some patients, they remain a promising option for bladder cancer treatment, especially in cases where other treatment options have failed. This review paper focuses on the current role, challenges, and future trends of immunotherapy in the management of bladder cancer.

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