Rheumatological adverse events secondary to immune checkpoint inhibitors

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) emerged in 2010 for cancer treatment.
• ICIs offer improved survival but present novel immune-mediated adverse events.
• Rheumatological toxicities are a significant concern within these adverse events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To alert internists and rheumatologists to ICI-related rheumatological toxicities.
• To provide guidance on the recognition and clinical management of these toxicities.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on immune checkpoint inhibitors and their toxicities.
• Focus on the spectrum of immune-mediated adverse events, particularly rheumatological manifestations.

Main Results:

• ICIs can lead to exaggerated T-lymphocyte inflammatory responses.
• Development of autoimmune diseases or similar pathologies is a known side effect.
• Rheumatological toxicities represent a notable subset of these adverse events.

Conclusions:

• Internists and rheumatologists must be aware of ICI-induced rheumatological conditions.
• Timely diagnosis and appropriate management strategies are essential for patient care.
• This review highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing ICI toxicities.