Immunotherapy for gastric cancer and liver metastasis: Is it time to bid farewell

Abstract

Patients with metastatic gastric cancer have a grim prognosis. Palliative chemotherapy offers a limited survival improvement, but recent advancements in immunotherapy have sparked hope. However, the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with liver metastases remains debated. This article reviews a recent study by Liu et al and evaluates conflicting evidence on the impact of liver metastases on response to immunotherapy in metastatic gastric cancer. While some studies suggest no significant difference in treatment response based on liver involvement, others report varied response rates. The present study, a retrospective analysis of 48 patients by Liu et al , examines this issue and concludes that immunotherapy is less effective in patients with liver metastases. Despite methodological limitations and a small sample size, the study contributes to the ongoing discourse. The nuanced response to immunotherapy in certain patients underscores the importance of understanding the tumor microenvironment, immune cell infiltration, and the expression of immune checkpoints. Rather than dismissing immunotherapy for patients with gastric cancer and liver metastases, a shift towards personalized treatment strategies and a more profound understanding of tumor-specific biomarkers is essential. By unraveling the molecular intricacies of individual cases, clinicians may tailor more effective and customized treatments, offering a glimmer of hope for this challenging patient group.