Managing cardiotoxicity associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Immuno-oncology represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment.
• Conventional therapies have established cardiotoxicity management protocols.
• Cardiotoxicity associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is increasingly recognized but poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms of action of widely used ICIs.
• To describe the cardiotoxicities associated with these novel agents.
• To highlight the growing need for research in cardio-immuno-oncology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on ICIs and cardiotoxicity.
• Analysis of reported cases of cardiotoxicity linked to ICIs.
• Examination of ICI mechanisms of action.

Main Results:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are associated with various cardiotoxicities.
• The incidence of ICI-related cardiotoxicity appears to be increasing.
• Current literature lacks comprehensive guidelines for managing ICI-induced cardiotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need to understand and manage cardiotoxicity related to immune checkpoint inhibitors.
• Further research is essential to develop specific guidelines for cardio-immuno-oncology.
• Early recognition and management are key to addressing this adverse effect.