Chemoimmunotherapy for Lung Cancer: Expert Care in London

What is Chemoimmunotherapy?

Chemoimmunotherapy for lung cancer combines two powerful treatments: chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells, while immunotherapy helps your immune system recognise and attack tumour cells more effectively.

This combined approach is now a standard of care for many people with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It can also be used in earlier stages, particularly as a neoadjuvant treatment before surgery in cases of resectable non-small-cell lung cancer.

How Does It Work?

Chemotherapy works by attacking cancer cells directly, often using platinum-based chemotherapy drugs. Immunotherapy, on the other hand, uses immune checkpoint inhibitors—such as monoclonal antibodies—to release the brakes on the immune system, allowing it to find and fight tumour cells.

Together, these therapies form first-line chemoimmunotherapy—especially useful in stage IB, IIIA NSCLC, or metastatic NSCLC. Some of the most promising regimens involve neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy, where treatment begins before surgery to shrink tumours and lower the risk of recurrence.

Who is It For?

Chemoimmunotherapy is suitable for many lung cancer patients, including those with:

- Advanced-stage or metastatic lung cancer

- Locally advanced NSCLC not amenable to surgery or radical radiotherapy

- Early-stage NSCLC being treated with a neoadjuvant therapy approach

Your eligibility depends on multiple risk factors, including expression levels of specific proteins on cancer cells and your general health. At consultation, I’ll review your diagnosis and help you decide if this is the right treatment option for you.

Benefits of Chemoimmunotherapy

Improved Survival Rates

Clinical studies show that combining chemotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy improves median overall survival in many patients compared with chemotherapy alone. It can delay disease progression and reduce the likelihood of relapse after surgery.

Potential for Long-Term Remission

Some patients—especially those with strong immune responses—can experience event-free survival or durable responses that last for years. This is especially important in cases of resectable lung cancer and early-stage NSCLC.

Side Effects and Risks

Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy

- Fatigue

- Nausea or vomiting

- Hair loss

- Increased risk of infections

Common Side Effects of Immunotherapy

- Skin rash or itching

- Inflammation in the lungs, liver, or other organs

- Thyroid or hormone imbalances

Managing Side Effects

Not everyone experiences severe side effects, but we always plan carefully to reduce adverse events. We monitor you regularly, manage symptoms quickly, and adapt your plan if needed. Your healthcare professionals will support you throughout your treatment.

The Treatment Process

How Chemoimmunotherapy is Administered

Treatments are usually given via an IV drip over a few hours. This is done in cycles, typically every three weeks, depending on your treatment plan.

What to Expect During Treatment

You’ll attend appointments at one of my London clinics. Your health professionals will run blood tests and scans to check your progress. If you're having neoadjuvant chemotherapy, this may be followed by surgery or radiation therapy, depending on the type of lung cancer.

I aim to keep your routine as normal as possible. We'll help you manage symptoms and support your emotional wellbeing throughout.

Dr. James Wilson: Your Expert in Lung Cancer Care

Expertise in Advanced Lung Cancer Treatments

As a clinical oncologist, I specialise in treating complex lung cancer cases using cutting-edge therapies like chemoimmunotherapy, radiation therapy, and neoadjuvant immunotherapy.

I stay current with the latest developments from major bodies like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, FDA (Food and Drug Administration), and American Association for Lung Cancer Research.

Access to Breakthrough Drug Therapies

My private practice gives you faster access to FDA-approved treatments and novel options from companies like Bristol Myers Squibb and AstraZeneca—without delays often seen in the public system.

Personalised Care for Each Patient

No two patients are the same. I’ll work closely with you to create a tailored systemic therapy plan, combining drug treatments, scans, and supportive care to suit your life and goals.

You’ll be seen regularly, and we’ll adapt your treatment as we go, using the latest data from Randomized Clinical Trials, real-world outcomes, and the best available clinical practice guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chemoimmunotherapy Right for Me?

It depends on the type of cancer, your general health, and how far the cancer has spread. Many people with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, or those with resectable stage IIIA tumours, can benefit from this new treatment.

What Are the Success Rates?

Many patients benefit from a major pathological response, meaning fewer active cancer cells remain after treatment. Clinical trials such as CheckMate 816 and Perioperative Nivolumab have shown a significant difference in outcomes.

Some studies also report improvements in median progression-free survival, with improved hazard ratios and better clinical outcomes in various subgroups, especially in III NSCLC.

How Can I Access Chemoimmunotherapy in the UK?

Through my London-based clinics—including The Cromwell Hospital—you can start treatment quickly. I also offer virtual consultations and second opinions for patients across the UK. Contact me directly via the website to get started.

All of my treatment recommendations are supported by a multidisciplinary team that consists of surgical oncology, medical oncologist, radiology, pathology, respiratory medicine and other healthcare professionals.

Contact Dr. James Wilson

Book a Consultation

To discuss your lung cancer treatment options, including chemoimmunotherapy for lung cancer, contact:

- Phone: +44 (0)20 7993 6716

- Email: info@drjameswilson.co.uk

- Website: https://drjameswilson.co.uk/contact/

- Or book an appointment directly here.

Clinic Locations in London

- The Cromwell Hospital

- The London Clinic

- LOC at Harley Street

- LOC at Chelsea (Sydney Street)

Further Reading

If you're exploring perioperative chemoimmunotherapy, I’ve also written about its role in early-stage treatment. You can read the article here.

For academic reference, see sources like N Engl J Med, J Cancer, Google Scholar, and the Editorial Board of Medical Oncology for the latest insights. I’m very happy to share any information required to help you make a positive decision about your help

Related articles: Available in the main menu or ‘Articles’ under Lung Cancer Treatment and Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment. To learn more about metastatic lung cancer, click here.