Checkpoint inhibitor therapy: Immune-related adverse event management

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a cornerstone of modern cancer therapy.
• ICI treatment is frequently associated with immune-related adverse events (irAEs).
• irAEs can manifest at any point during or after therapy, posing a clinical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the landscape of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
• To describe the implementation of a patient education program.
• To enhance the recognition of immunotherapy-related irAEs and their toxicities.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on ICI therapy and irAEs.
• Development and implementation of a patient education program.
• Focus on patient recognition of irAE symptoms and toxicities.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of multiple irAEs associated with ICIs.
• irAEs can occur during treatment and up to 3 months post-treatment.
• Patient education is crucial for timely identification and management.

Conclusions:

• Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy necessitates vigilant monitoring for irAEs.
• Patient education programs are vital for improving the recognition of immunotherapy toxicities.
• Early recognition of irAEs can potentially improve patient outcomes.