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Updated: Mar 22, 2026
Monitoring PD-1-Blocking Antibodies Bound to T Cells Derived from a Drop of Peripheral Blood
Published on: February 5, 2020
Cutaneous, gastrointestinal, hepatic, endocrine, and renal side-effects of anti-PD-1 therapy
Lars Hofmann1, Andrea Forschner2, Carmen Loquai3
1Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany.
Background:
Anti-programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) antibodies represent an effective treatment option for metastatic melanoma as well as for other cancer entities. They act via blockade of the PD-1 receptor, an inhibitor of the T-cell effector mechanisms that limit immune responses against tumours. As reported for ipilimumab, the anti-PD-1 antibodies pembrolizumab and nivolumab can induce immune-related adverse events (irAEs). These side-effects affect skin, gastrointestinal tract, liver, endocrine system and other organ systems. Since life-threatening and fatal irAEs have been reported, adequate diagnosis and management are essential.
Methods And Findings:
In total, 496 patients with metastatic melanoma from 15 skin cancer centers were treated with pembrolizumab or nivolumab; 242 side-effects were described in 138 patients. In 116 of the 138 patients, side-effects affected the skin, gastrointestinal tract, liver, endocrine, and renal system. Rare side-effects included diabetes mellitus, lichen planus, and pancreas insufficiency due to pancreatitis.
Conclusion:
Anti-PD1 antibodies can induce a plethora of irAEs. The knowledge of them will allow prompt diagnosis and improve the management resulting in decreased morbidity.
Insights
Anti-programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) antibodies effectively treat metastatic melanoma but can cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Understanding these side effects is crucial for prompt diagnosis and management to reduce patient morbidity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Anti-programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) antibodies are effective cancer treatments.
- These antibodies block PD-1, releasing T-cell inhibition against tumors.
- Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are known side effects of PD-1 blockade.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the spectrum of irAEs associated with anti-PD-1 antibody therapy.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing and managing these side effects.
- To improve patient outcomes by facilitating prompt diagnosis and treatment of irAEs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 496 patients with metastatic melanoma treated with pembrolizumab or nivolumab.
- Documentation and categorization of reported side effects.
- Analysis of the frequency and affected organ systems of irAEs.
Main Results:
- 242 side effects were reported in 138 out of 496 patients.
- Skin, gastrointestinal, liver, endocrine, and renal systems were most commonly affected.
- Rare irAEs included diabetes mellitus, lichen planus, and pancreatitis-induced pancreas insufficiency.
Conclusions:
- Anti-PD-1 antibodies can induce a wide range of irAEs.
- Knowledge of these irAEs is essential for timely diagnosis and effective management.
- Improved understanding and management of irAEs can decrease patient morbidity.
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