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Published on: May 6, 2018
Immune checkpoint inhibitor induced nephrotoxicity: An ongoing challenge
Martina Catalano1, Giandomenico Roviello2, Ilaria Camilla Galli3
1School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
Abstract:
Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have dramatically revolutionized the field of oncology over the last decade, severe immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are potentially life-threatening. In comparison with toxicities involving the skin, gastrointestinal tract and endocrine system, nephrotoxicity is less common but often underestimated due to difficult diagnosis. Management usually consists of treatment discontinuation and/or corticosteroid use. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of ICI-induced nephrotoxicity, evaluating drawbacks and future perspectives.
Insights
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) offer cancer treatment advances but can cause severe immune-related adverse events (irAEs). This review focuses on ICI-induced nephrotoxicity, its challenges, and future research directions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed cancer therapy.
- Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are significant toxicities associated with ICIs.
- Nephrotoxicity is a less common but serious irAE, often difficult to diagnose.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of ICI-induced nephrotoxicity.
- To evaluate the challenges in diagnosing and managing kidney toxicity from ICIs.
- To discuss future perspectives in the field of ICI-related kidney injury.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current knowledge on ICI-induced nephrotoxicity.
- Analysis of diagnostic challenges and management strategies.
- Evaluation of existing data and identification of research gaps.
Main Results:
- ICI-induced nephrotoxicity is underdiagnosed due to subtle or non-specific symptoms.
- Standard management involves discontinuing ICIs and/or using corticosteroids.
- Limited data exists on specific mechanisms and long-term outcomes of ICI nephrotoxicity.
Conclusions:
- ICI-induced nephrotoxicity requires greater clinical attention and improved diagnostic tools.
- Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms, refine management, and predict risk.
- Optimizing the use of ICIs while mitigating kidney-related irAEs is crucial for patient care.
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