Analysis of risk factors for immune-related adverse events in various solid tumors using real-world data

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) like anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies have revolutionized cancer treatment.
• However, these therapies can trigger immune-related adverse events (irAEs) affecting various organs.
• Identifying patients at higher risk for irAEs is crucial for proactive management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify significant risk factors associated with the development of irAEs in cancer patients treated with ICIs.
• To analyze patient data retrospectively to pinpoint predictors of irAEs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 247 patients with malignant melanoma, non-small-cell lung cancer, gastric cancer, or renal cell carcinoma treated with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies.
• Multivariate Fine-Gray regression analysis was employed to assess risk factors for irAEs.
• Data collected included patient demographics, cancer type, treatment, and occurrence of irAEs.

Main Results:

• A total of 182 irAEs were observed in 118 out of 247 patients.
• Serum albumin level ≥3.6 g/dL was significantly associated with an increased risk of irAEs (HR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.10-2.39; p=0.015).
• A history of Type I hypersensitivity reactions also emerged as a significant risk factor (HR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.02-2.14; p=0.037).

Conclusions:

• Elevated serum albumin levels and a prior history of Type I hypersensitivity reactions are significant predictors of irAEs in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors.
• These findings can aid clinicians in identifying high-risk individuals and implementing tailored monitoring or prophylactic strategies.
• Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these risk factors and explore potential interventions.