Nivolumab with or without chemotherapy for metastatic gastroesophageal cancers and future perspectives

Introduction: Gastroesophageal cancers (GEC) are frequently found at the advanced stage. GEC treatment advancements have been limited and prognosis, therefore, remains poor. Through numerous clinical trials, the addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors, including nivolumab, to conventional therapy has demonstrated a survival benefit. Areas covered: Here, we focus on the function of nivolumab in patients with advanced GECs. We discuss the most recent trials that led to nivolumab’s incorporation into therapy and pathways forward. Expert opinion: Nivolumab in combination with chemotherapy appears well tolerated, with only a small number of patients reporting severe toxicity; therefore, it may be possible to add additional biological agents to improve outcomes. A number of ‘nivolumab plus other agents’ is currently being investigated, and we anticipate continued advancement in GEC management in the coming years.