Immune checkpoint inhibitor-related myositis: from pathophysiology to treatment

Chandrasekhar Sundarrajan1, Salman Bhai2, Mazen M Dimachkie3

  • 1Department of Neurology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.

Insights

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can cause myositis, a rare but serious neuromuscular side effect. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this potentially life-threatening condition.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Immuno-oncology has advanced rapidly, increasing the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) across various cancers.
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can cause a range of adverse effects, including ICI-related myositis.
  • ICI-related myositis is a rare but potentially life-threatening neuromuscular complication.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of ICI-related myositis.
  • To synthesize recent literature on ICI-related myositis due to knowledge gaps and lack of evidence-based guidelines.
  • To emphasize pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, management, and future research directions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent publications on ICI-related myositis.
  • Synthesis of existing data on the condition's various aspects.

Main Results:

  • ICI-related myositis presents a unique challenge due to its rarity and the absence of established guidelines.
  • Understanding the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic workup is essential for prompt management.
  • Effective treatment strategies are critical to mitigate the potentially life-threatening nature of this complication.

Conclusions:

  • ICI-related myositis requires prompt diagnosis and management.
  • Further research is needed to address the existing gaps in knowledge and develop evidence-based guidelines.
  • A multidisciplinary approach is likely necessary for optimal patient outcomes.

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