Chronic sequelae of immune-related adverse events

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have become an increasingly effective treatment for various malignancies, although their use is associated with a range of organ toxicities. As these therapies become more prevalent, it is critical to establish appropriate management and long-term surveillance strategies for patients who develop immune-related adverse events.

This review explores the chronic sequelae that may result from immune-related adverse events and focuses specifically on their persistence, outcomes, and implications for future research. A literature review was conducted using PubMed to identify relevant articles from within the last 10 years.

While acute management of irAEs has improved over the past decade, there is a major gap in understanding and addressing their chronic sequelae. Challenges in studying these sequelae include the complexity of cancer care, overlapping clinical presentations, and previously, a lack of long-term data. Continued research from large multicenter studies and dedicated databases can identify high-risk patients, inform risk-benefit discussions, refine management strategies, and pave the way for evidence-based, long-term care.