Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Geriatric Oncology

This manuscript will update prior reviews of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in light of basic science, translational, and clinical discoveries in the field of cancer immunology and aging.

ICIs have led to significant advancements in the treatment of cancer. Landmark trials of ICIs have cited the efficacy and toxicity experienced by older patients, but most trials are not specifically designed to address outcomes in older patients. Underlying mechanisms of aging, like cellular senescence, affect the immune system and may ultimately alter the host’s response to ICIs. Validated tools are currently used to identify older adults who may be at greater risk of developing complications from their cancer treatment.

We review changes in the aging immune system that may alter responses to ICIs, report outcomes and toxicities in older adults from recent ICI clinical trials, and discuss clinical tools specific to older patients with cancer.