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Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Colitis: Diagnosis and Management
Caroline Prieux-Klotz1, Marie Dior2,3, Diane Damotte4
1Department of Gastroenterology, Cochin Teaching Hospital, 27, rue du faubourg Saint Jacques, 75014, Paris, France. prieuxcaroline@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are monoclonal antibodies indicated for an increasing number of malignant diseases. These agents can cause specific side effects, which need to be anticipated while clear patterns of management need to be established. Immune checkpoint inhibitor-mediated gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea and colitis, occur in up to 30% of patients. Severe colitis can lead to severe dehydration or intestinal perforation. Endoscopic lesions and histopathological features of immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis are similar to an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flare. Patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced diarrhea and colitis are treated with corticosteroids. Infliximab can be used in cases of corticosteroid failure. Rectosigmoïdoscopy or colonoscopy should be performed when severe immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis is suspected, but endoscopic investigations should not delay treatment. Specific patient education as well as co-operation between oncologists and gastroenterologists is essential.
Insights
Immune checkpoint inhibitors can cause gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea and colitis in up to 30% of patients. Early diagnosis and management with corticosteroids or infliximab are crucial for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly used for various cancers.
- ICI therapy can lead to immune-related adverse events, particularly gastrointestinal toxicity.
- Gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea and colitis, affect up to 30% of patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the clinical presentation and management of ICI-mediated gastrointestinal side effects.
- To emphasize the importance of early recognition and intervention for severe colitis.
- To highlight the need for collaboration between oncologists and gastroenterologists.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical data and management strategies for ICI-induced gastrointestinal toxicity.
- Endoscopic and histopathological comparison of ICI-induced colitis with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flares.
- Discussion of treatment protocols including corticosteroids and infliximab.
Main Results:
- ICI-induced colitis shares endoscopic and histopathological features with IBD flares.
- Corticosteroids are the first-line treatment for ICI-induced diarrhea and colitis.
- Infliximab is effective in corticosteroid-refractory cases.
- Endoscopic evaluation is recommended for suspected severe colitis but should not delay treatment.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of ICI-induced gastrointestinal side effects requires prompt recognition and treatment.
- A multidisciplinary approach involving oncologists and gastroenterologists is essential.
- Patient education and clear management guidelines are critical for optimal outcomes.
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