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Published on: February 5, 2020
PD-1 Inhibitors: Safety of Use and Management of Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions in Patients With Head and Neck
Rebecca L Lewis1, Kristen L Miller2
1University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center.
Background:
Treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) with programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors has been associated with risk of developing immune-mediated adverse reactions (IMARs).
Objectives:
This review provides nurses with an overview of the safety of PD-1 inhibitors approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for recurrent or metastatic SCCHN following platinum chemotherapy, as well as recommendations for assisting with the diagnosis and management of IMARs.
Methods:
PubMed® searches were conducted to identify relevant articles to support this review. Algorithms from drug manufacturers for IMAR management were also reviewed.
Findings:
Before treatment with PD-1 inhibitors, nurses should map patients' baseline profiles, which play a key role in aiding the healthcare team in the timely diagnosis and treatment of IMARs. Nurses should educate patients and caregivers on identifying signs and symptoms of IMARs and their progression. Within the interprofessional healthcare team, nurses play an important role in ensuring efficient management of IMARs to minimize withholding or discontinuation of PD-1 immunotherapy.
Insights
Nurses play a vital role in managing immune-mediated adverse reactions (IMARs) in patients receiving programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors for head and neck cancers. Early identification and patient education are key to effective IMAR treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Nursing Care
Background:
- Treatment of recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) with programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors carries a risk of immune-mediated adverse reactions (IMARs).
- Understanding and managing these IMARs is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide nurses with an overview of the safety of PD-1 inhibitors for SCCHN.
- To offer recommendations for the diagnosis and management of IMARs in patients receiving PD-1 inhibitors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review using PubMed® searches.
- Review of drug manufacturer algorithms for IMAR management.
Main Results:
- Nurses should assess baseline patient profiles to aid in timely IMAR diagnosis and treatment.
- Patient and caregiver education on recognizing IMAR signs and symptoms is essential.
- Nurses are integral to efficient IMAR management, minimizing treatment interruptions.
Conclusions:
- Proactive nursing involvement in monitoring and managing IMARs is critical for patients undergoing PD-1 inhibitor therapy for SCCHN.
- Effective nursing strategies can optimize patient outcomes and maintain the continuity of immunotherapy.
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