A review of serious adverse effects under treatment with checkpoint inhibitors

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly used beyond oncology and dermatology.
• Physicians in various subspecialties may have limited experience with ICI-related side-effects.
• Raising awareness of severe adverse events is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform physicians about serious side-effects of immune-checkpoint blocking antibodies.
• To emphasize the importance of early recognition and management of ICI-induced adverse events.
• To spread knowledge on managing severe side-effects in diverse patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent reports and literature on immune-checkpoint inhibitor side-effects.
• Analysis of documented cases involving various organ systems.
• Identification of emerging side-effect profiles and special patient populations.

Main Results:

• ICIs can cause severe side-effects across all organ systems.
• Life-threatening toxicities, including cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity, are reported.
• CMV reactivation and side-effects in transplant or autoimmune patients require consideration.

Conclusions:

• Immune-checkpoint inhibitor treatment can lead to a broad spectrum of serious side-effects.
• Most side-effects can be managed effectively with prompt diagnosis and treatment.
• Continued documentation and reporting of adverse events are vital for optimal patient care.