Sequential versus concurrent neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a randomized, controlled, open-label, phase 2 trial (HCHTOG1906) - Report - MDSpire

Sequential versus concurrent neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a randomized, controlled, open-label, phase 2 trial (HCHTOG1906)

  • By

  • Yan Zheng

  • Jiwei Wu

  • Lingdi Zhao

  • Yaxing Shen

  • Guanghui Liang

  • Keting Li

  • Quanli Gao

  • Wenqun Xing

  • May 7, 2026

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Clinical Report: Sequential vs Concurrent Neoadjuvant Immunochemotherapy in ESCC

Overview

This phase II trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of sequential versus concurrent neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The study found no significant differences in pathological complete remission or survival outcomes between the two approaches, though the concurrent regimen was associated with higher rates of adverse events.

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with PD-1 inhibitors has shown promise in improving treatment outcomes, yet the optimal timing for administration remains unclear. Understanding the comparative effectiveness of sequential versus concurrent regimens is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies in this patient population.

Data Highlights

{'pCR_comparison': 'Correct to reflect P = 0.636.'}

Key Findings

{'pCR_rates': 'Ensure consistent reporting of pCR rates and significance.'}

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that both sequential and concurrent neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy regimens yield similar efficacy in terms of pCR and survival outcomes in ESCC. However, clinicians should be cautious of the increased risk of adverse events associated with the concurrent regimen, particularly gastrointestinal toxicities.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for further research to clarify the optimal timing of immunochemotherapy in ESCC, as both sequential and concurrent approaches appear to have comparable efficacy but differing safety profiles.

References

  1. Frontiers in Oncology, 2026 -- Sequential Versus Concurrent Neoadjuvant Immunochemotherapy in Locally Advanced Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized, Controlled, Open-Label, Phase 2 Trial (HCHTOG1906)
  2. The ASCO Post, 2025 -- Concurrent vs Sequential Pembrolizumab With Chemoradiation in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
  3. The ASCO Post, 2011 -- Improved Survival with Concurrent Chemotherapy plus Radiotherapy for Patients with Stage III Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
  4. The ASCO Post, 2026 -- Sequential or Concurrent Radiotherapy and Immunotherapy in Advanced Newly Diagnosed or Refractory NSCLC
  5. ESMO Clinical Practice Guideline, 2023 -- Interim update on the treatment of locally advanced oesophageal and oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma and metastatic squamous-cell carcinoma
  6. Frontiers in Oncology — The survival impact of upfront or sequential chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
  7. Camrelizumab plus chemotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy as neoadjuvant therapy for resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: Phase 2 randomized trial (REVO)
  8. The survival impact of upfront or sequential chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
  9. ESMO Clinical Practice Guideline interim update on the treatment of locally advanced oesophageal and oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma and metastatic squamous-cell carcinoma - PMC
  10. Frontiers | Sequential Versus Concurrent Neoadjuvant Immunochemotherapy in Locally Advanced Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized, Controlled, Open-Label, Phase 2 Trial (HCHTOG1906)

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