CANCER IMMUNOTHERAPY: AN EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most significant breakthroughs in oncology, reshaping how clinicians, researchers, and patients perceive cancer treatment. Unlike conventional therapies that directly target tumors through surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, immunotherapy harnesses and modifies the body’s immune system to recognize, attack, and eliminate malignant cells. Over the past three decades, tremendous advances have occurred in understanding tumor immunology, leading to the development of novel therapeutic modalities such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, monoclonal antibodies, and oncolytic viruses. Each of these therapeutic classes employs distinct mechanisms of action, exhibits unique toxicities, and carries implications for clinical practice. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the principles, mechanisms, clinical applications, and challenges of immunotherapy, alongside its implications for nursing practice and patient education. With continued research, immunotherapy promises to transform cancer care into a more precise, effective, and durable therapeutic strategy. Keywords: Cancer immunotherapy; checkpoint inhibitors; CAR T-cell therapy; monoclonal antibodies; oncolytic viral therapy; immune-related adverse events; oncology nursing