Cutaneous Adverse Events Associated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Review Article

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are effective cancer treatments targeting CTLA-4, PD-1, and PD-L1.
• ICI therapy activates the immune system, potentially leading to immune-related adverse events (irAEs).
• The skin is the most frequently affected organ in irAEs, occurring in nearly half of patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review immune checkpoint inhibitor-mediated dermatologic reactions.
• To describe the clinical and histopathologic presentation of these skin toxicities.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and management for favorable patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of ICI-mediated dermatologic reactions.
• Analysis of clinical and histopathologic presentations.
• Discussion of management strategies for cutaneous irAEs.

Main Results:

• Dermatologic toxicities, primarily maculopapular rash and pruritus, are common with ICIs.
• Most cutaneous irAEs are manageable and allow for continued ICI therapy.
• Recognition of severe toxicities is essential for optimal patient care.

Conclusions:

• ICI-mediated skin reactions are frequent but often manageable.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management of irAEs improve patient quality of life.
• Understanding these dermatologic reactions is key for safe and effective ICI use in cancer treatment.