Toxicities associated with checkpoint inhibitors-an overview

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors, is increasingly used for cancer treatment (metastatic and adjuvant).
• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1/PD-L1) activate the immune system, leading to unique side effect profiles.
• Adverse events can be rare, subtle, and easily overlooked, necessitating heightened clinician awareness, especially in patients with autoimmune conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe common symptoms of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) associated with anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies.
• To outline diagnostic strategies for identifying organ-specific side effects of cancer immunotherapy.
• To enhance clinician recognition and management of irAEs in patients undergoing immunotherapy.

Main Methods:

• Review of common and rare side effects associated with anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents.
• Compilation of clinical symptoms indicative of organ-specific immunotherapy toxicities.
• Summary of diagnostic approaches for irAEs.

Main Results:

• Common symptoms of immunotherapy-related adverse events are detailed.
• Diagnostic strategies for organ-specific toxicities are presented.
• Focus on rare and subtle adverse events requiring clinical vigilance.

Conclusions:

• Clinician awareness is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of immunotherapy side effects.
• Understanding the spectrum of irAEs improves patient outcomes in cancer immunotherapy.
• Effective management strategies are essential for patients receiving anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents.