Endocrinopathies induced by immune-checkpoint inhibitors in advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment has been revolutionized by immunotherapy.
• Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) and anti-programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibodies (nivolumab, pembrolizumab), are now approved for advanced NSCLC.
• The mechanism of action of these inhibitors involves modulating the immune system, which can lead to autoimmune side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To focus on endocrine disorders induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors in NSCLC patients.
• To provide strategies for the diagnosis of these endocrine disorders.
• To suggest effective management approaches for endocrine complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on immunotherapy in NSCLC.
• Analysis of reported endocrine side effects associated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.
• Synthesis of diagnostic and management guidelines for endocrine disorders.

Main Results:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors can induce a range of endocrine disorders.
• Early diagnosis and proactive management are crucial for mitigating the impact of these side effects.
• Specific endocrine toxicities and their clinical presentations are discussed.

Conclusions:

• Endocrine disorders are a significant side effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors in NSCLC.
• A systematic approach to diagnosis and management is essential for patient care.
• Further research may elucidate more precise management strategies.