This volume aims to provide a detailed and complete picture of the use of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) drugs in Italy, starting from their marketing authorization in the period 2017-2022. These drugs, having acquired growing importance in the field of oncology therapies in recent years, require an in-depth evaluation of their impact on the market. In fact, ICI drugs, known for their ability to enhance the immune response against tumor cells, have become crucial tools in the treatment of different types of solid tumors. Therefore, an accurate analysis of their use allows us to better understand how these innovative treatments are influencing therapeutic practices and clinical results. The study, conducted at both a national (Italy) and regional (Campania) level, provided a broad overview of the adoption and diffusion of ICIs. Their impact in terms of healthcare spending and consumption was assessed by analyzing sales data and prescriptions. These data offer valuable insights into how ICIs are used in clinical practice and how regulatory decisions and health policies may influence their access and use. For this reason, the regulatory dimension was also explored in depth in the book, also in relation to the innovative nature of these drugs. The analysis therefore included the evaluation of the regulations in force, the authorization processes and the clinical guidelines that govern the use of ICIs. These aspects are fundamental to understanding how therapeutic innovation is integrated into the healthcare system and how policies influence the availability and access to new treatments. The interpretation of the data obtained from the analyzes conducted clearly suggests that ICI drugs will play an increasingly relevant role in future oncological therapies. The growing trend of use and the continuous expansion of therapeutic indications confirm the effectiveness of this class of drugs. The evidence collected also indicates that, with the evolution of research and the improvement of technologies, the use of ICIs is likely to become even wider and more widespread, with positive impacts on clinical outcomes and patients' quality of life. This volume was written as part of the PRIN Project – 2017NR7W5K, “A blood-based biomarker approach for the optimization of treatment with immune-checkpoint inhibitors in solid tumors” funded by the Ministry of Education, University and Research.

This book is included in DOAB.