The abscopal effect of local radiotherapy: Using immunotherapy to make a rare event clinically relevant

Abstract

Background: Recently, immunologic responses to localized irradiation are proposed as mediator of systemic effects after localized radiotherapy (called the abscopal effect). Here, we give an overview of both preclinical and clinical data about the abscopal effect in particular and link them with the immunogenic properties of radiotherapy. Methods: We searched Medline and Embase with the search term "abscopal","(non-targeted irradiation) OR (non-targeted radiotherapy)"and"distant bystander" from 1960 until July, 2014. Only papers that cover radiotherapy in an oncological setting were selected and only if no concurrent cytotoxic treatment was given. Targeted immune therapy was allowed. Results:..