Neurological Immune-Related Adverse Events Induced by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Sotiria Stavropoulou De Lorenzo1, Athina Andravizou1, Harry Alexopoulos2
1Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece.
Biomedicines
|June 27, 2024
Summary
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) improve cancer survival but can cause neurological immune-related adverse events (irAEs). This review details their epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management for clinicians.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Neurology
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment, improving survival and remission rates for advanced malignancies.
- ICIs function by enhancing the immune response against tumors, but this can lead to immune-related adverse events (irAEs).
- Neurological irAEs, while uncommon, pose significant risks including high disability and potential mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of neurological irAEs associated with ICI therapy.
- To enhance physician awareness and knowledge regarding the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of these events.
Main Methods:
- This study is a narrative review.
- It synthesizes currently available data on neurological irAEs following ICI treatment.
- The review covers epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment.
Main Results:
- Severe neurological irAEs are rare but carry a substantial burden of disability and risk.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial for patients experiencing new neurological symptoms during ICI therapy.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians require heightened awareness and updated knowledge to effectively manage neurological irAEs.
- This review serves as a guide for the diagnosis and treatment of post-ICI neurological irAEs.
Keywords:
antineuronal antibodiescentral nervous systemimmune checkpoint inhibitorsneurological immune-related adverse eventsneurotoxicityparaneoplastic neurological syndromesperipheral nervous systemMore Related Videos
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