Course Overview :
The Foundations in Immunotherapy in the Oncology Population 2026 course by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center delivers a comprehensive and clinically focused exploration of modern immuno-oncology. This program is designed to provide healthcare professionals with a strong foundation in the principles, mechanisms, and real-world application of immunotherapy across a wide range of malignancies.
Immunotherapeutic approaches have significantly transformed the treatment landscape for both solid tumors and hematologic cancers. Since the initial approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors, continuous advancements have reshaped oncology practice, offering new opportunities to improve patient outcomes. This course addresses these developments through a structured review of core concepts and emerging innovations in the field.
Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of key treatment modalities, including checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, and bispecific agents. The program also emphasizes evidence-based strategies for identifying, evaluating, and managing immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which are critical to ensuring safe and effective treatment delivery.
Through a combination of didactic content and case-based discussions, learners will enhance their ability to apply immunotherapy in clinical settings, optimize patient selection, and manage therapy-related toxicities. The overall goal is to strengthen clinical decision-making and improve patient care through a deeper understanding of cancer immunology and therapeutic strategies.
Learning Objective
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define foundational concepts of immunotherapy, including immune system components and mechanisms of action
- Explain how immunotherapeutic strategies target both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies
- Apply evidence-based approaches for patient selection, risk assessment, and treatment planning
- Compare emerging immunotherapy agents based on efficacy, safety, and mechanisms
- Evaluate the role of CAR T-cell therapy, including eligibility criteria, outcomes, and toxicity management
- Develop strategies for recognizing and managing immune-related adverse events in oncology patients
Target Audience
This program is intended for:
- Medical oncologists and hematologists
- Nurse practitioners and physician assistants
- Oncology nurses and allied healthcare professionals
- Clinicians seeking foundational and practical updates in immunotherapy
Specialties Covered
- Dermatology
- Genitourinary Oncology
- Hematology
- Hepatology
- Hospital Medicine
- Leukemia and Lymphoma
- Medical Oncology
- Myeloma
- Neuro-Oncology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Solid Tumor Oncology
- Immunotherapy
Key Topics
- Foundations and mechanisms of immune checkpoint blockade (PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4)
- Advances in CAR T-cell therapy and toxicity management (CRS, ICANS, cytopenias)
- Emerging therapies including bispecific antibodies and T-cell–based treatments
- Immunotherapy applications in leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and solid tumors
- Novel approaches in lung cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, and gastrointestinal malignancies
- Management of immunotherapy-related toxicities, including pneumonitis and dermatologic effects
- Role of biomarkers such as circulating tumor DNA (cfDNA) in predicting treatment response
- Intrathecal immunotherapy and innovative delivery strategies
- Combination therapies and next-generation immuno-oncology agents
- Case-based discussions highlighting common, rare, and severe adverse events
Clinical Value
This course equips participants with the essential knowledge and practical tools needed to integrate immunotherapy into oncology practice effectively. By focusing on both foundational science and clinical application, the program supports improved patient outcomes through informed, evidence-based treatment strategies.
