Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 21, 2026
A Standardized Procedure of Dressing Management for Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Published on: March 14, 2025
Management of Gastrointestinal Toxicity from Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor
Marta Rocha1, João Correia de Sousa1, Marta Salgado1,2
1Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital de Santo António/Centro Hospitalar do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
Abstract:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown anti-tumour activity in cancers such as melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, non-small-cell lung cancer, urothelial carcinoma, colorectal cancer, and Hodgkin's lymphoma. Though immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment and prognosis of some advanced malignancies, they are also associated with a significant risk of immune-related adverse events. These adverse events can occur in any organ system, but gastrointestinal side effects are among the most commonly reported, with manifestations ranging from mild diarrhoea to severe colitis, sharing some features with inflammatory bowel disease. Anticipating a greater use of these drugs in the future, gastroenterologists should expect to be increasingly faced with gastrointestinal immune-related adverse events. Knowledge of these toxicities, as well as effective management algorithms, is essential to enable early diagnosis and treatment, decreasing morbidity and mortality. We reviewed the currently available literature on gastrointestinal toxicity induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors, namely the clinical features, diagnosis, and management.
Insights
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) offer anti-tumour benefits but can cause immune-related adverse events. This review focuses on gastrointestinal toxicities from ICIs, aiding early diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed cancer treatment for various malignancies.
- However, ICIs are linked to immune-related adverse events (irAEs) affecting multiple organ systems.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities are common irAEs, ranging from mild diarrhea to severe colitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on GI toxicities induced by ICIs.
- To outline the clinical features, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies for these toxicities.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search on GI toxicity associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
- Analysis of clinical presentations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment guidelines.
Main Results:
- Gastrointestinal irAEs present with diverse symptoms, mimicking inflammatory bowel disease.
- Early recognition and intervention are crucial for managing these potentially severe side effects.
- Effective management algorithms are essential to mitigate morbidity and mortality.
Conclusions:
- Gastroenterologists must be prepared for an increasing incidence of ICI-induced GI toxicities.
- Understanding the nuances of these toxicities is vital for optimal patient care.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly improve outcomes for patients receiving ICIs.
Related Concept Videos
02:19The Spindle Assembly Checkpoint
Many proteins function together to control the spindle assembly checkpoint. Mutations affecting these proteins may allow cells to proceed into anaphase prematurely, resulting in the...
01:52Eukaryotic Transcription Inhibitors
Eukaryotic transcription inhibitors usually contain two distinct domains, a...
01:26Anatomy of the Gastrointestinal System
Here's a detailed walkthrough of this complex system:
01:38What is the Immune System?
01:20Histology of the Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract
The mucosa is sometimes called a mucous membrane due to its mucus-secreting features. This membrane is composed of epithelium, which directly interacts with ingested substances, and the lamina propria, a layer...
01:20Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders