Efficacy Comparison of Neoadjuvant Short-Course and Long-Course Radiotherapy Regimens With or Without Immunotherapy for Locally Advanced pMMR Rectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis - Takeaways - MDSpire

Efficacy Comparison of Neoadjuvant Short-Course and Long-Course Radiotherapy Regimens With or Without Immunotherapy for Locally Advanced pMMR Rectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

  • By

  • Liqing Li

  • Xiaoyao Meng

  • Qiaoyuan Wu

  • Yuxin Wei

  • Shixiong Liang

  • Tingshi Su

  • March 14, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Locally advanced rectal cancer management now emphasizes neoadjuvant therapy, primarily using radiotherapy before total mesorectal excision.

  • 2

    Short-course radiotherapy (SCRT) shows non-inferior pathologic complete response rates compared to long-course chemoradiotherapy (LCRT), with added convenience.

  • 3

    Total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) aims to maximize tumor regression and organ preservation, shifting focus from pCR to curative-intent response.

  • 4

    Combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with radiotherapy enhances anti-tumor immunity, improving pCR rates in proficient mismatch repair rectal cancer.

  • 5

    This systematic review and network meta-analysis aims to compare the efficacy of SCRT and LCRT regimens with and without immunotherapy for pMMR rectal cancer.

Original Source(s)

Efficacy Comparison of Neoadjuvant Short-Course and Long-Course Radiotherapy Regimens With or Without Immunotherapy for Locally Advanced pMMR Rectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

  • by Liqing Li, Xiaoyao Meng, Qiaoyuan Wu, Yuxin Wei, Shixiong Liang, Tingshi Su

  • March 14, 2026

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