Filip Marković

I see research not just as a professional responsibility but as a meaningful way to contribute to improving outcomes for a patient population that urgently needs better solutions.

Filip Marković, MD, is an Internal Medicine Resident at the Pulmonology Clinic, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Serbia.

Filip Marković, MD, is an internal medicine resident at the Pulmonology Clinic, University Clinical Center of Serbia, specializing in the treatment of lung cancer with a focus on targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Alongside his clinical responsibilities, he is actively involved in translational research, multidisciplinary tumor boards. Dr. Marković earned his medical degree from the University of Belgrade, Serbia, in 2019, where he is currently pursuing a PhD. He is a member of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), the European School of Oncology (ESO), and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC). These memberships enable him to stay updated on advancements in oncology, collaborate with global experts and contribute to discussions shaping the future of cancer care. 

Dr. Marković’s current research focuses on exploring the impact of immune-related adverse events on the efficacy of Atezolizumab for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer patients. Dr. Marković is committed to improving outcomes for lung cancer patients through a combination of clinical expertise, research and international collaboration.

Real-world insights into atezolizumab efficacy and immune-related adverse events in advanced NSCLC

The importance of this research for clinical practice and patients lies in its focus on bridging the gap between controlled clinical trials and real-world practice. While immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) like atezolizumab have revolutionized NSCLC treatment, their real-world applicability, particularly in resource-limited settings, remains underexplored. This study investigates the association between immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and atezolizumab efficacy in NSCLC patients who have undergone multiple lines of chemotherapy, providing critical insights.

ICIs have become the standard of care for metastatic NSCLC in the absence of treatable mutations. However, they present unique toxicities, known as irAEs. Dr. Marković et al. explored the irAE-efficacy relationship in a real-world cohort of advanced NSCLC patients receiving second-line ICIs, demonstrating a correlation between irAEs and treatment response. These findings confirm previous observations in patient populations often excluded from randomized clinical trials.

Additionally, the study reflects real-world challenges, such as treating patients with poor performance status or those ineligible for clinical trials. By demonstrating the reproducibility of the irAE-efficacy relationship in this setting, the research supports oncologists in resource-limited regions in making evidence-based treatment decisions.

Commitment to lung cancer research and patient outcomes

Dr. Filip Marković is privileged to work at the largest lung cancer center in Serbia, a country with one of the highest incidences of lung cancer. This unique environment provides him with valuable insights into the challenges faced by patients and the existing gaps in care. 

His work is driven by a deep commitment to addressing these unmet needs and improving clinical outcomes for lung cancer patients. For Dr. Marković, research is not just a professional responsibility but a meaningful way to bring about tangible improvements in patient care. He was drawn to medicine for its blend of problem-solving, continuous learning and the opportunity to make a significant impact, driven by a sense of both curiosity and purpose.