Assessing the risk of cardiovascular events in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors

María Torrente1,2, Mariola Blanco1, Fabio Franco1

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda University Hospital, Madrid, Spain.

Abstract

Insights

Cardiac events (CE) from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are more common than previously thought. Risk factors include age, prior heart conditions, and previous immune-related adverse events, necessitating proactive cardiac evaluation.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cardiology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed cancer therapy.
  • ICIs can cause immune-related adverse events, including potentially fatal cardiotoxicity.
  • The incidence of ICI-related cardiotoxicity is likely underestimated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of cardiac events in patients receiving ICIs.
  • To identify risk factors associated with ICI-induced cardiotoxicity.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective single-institution study.
  • Analysis of 378 patients treated with ICIs.
  • Primary outcomes: cardiac events and cardiovascular death.

Main Results:

  • The incidence of cardiac events was 16.7% over a median follow-up of 50.5 months.
  • Significant risk factors for cardiac events included older age, history of arrhythmia or ischemic heart disease, and prior immune-related adverse events.

Conclusions:

  • Cardiac events during ICI therapy are more frequent than recognized.
  • Pre-treatment cardiovascular assessment is crucial, particularly for high-risk individuals.
  • A multidisciplinary cardio-oncology approach is recommended for managing ICI-related cardiotoxicity.

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