Article Text
Abstract
In recent years, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPis) have revolutionized treatment of advanced cancers due to their ability to produce durable response in a wide range of tumor types. However, disruption in immune homeostasis due to unbridled T-cell activity produces a unique spectrum of side effects termed as immune-related adverse events (irAEs). These irAEs are diverse and have important clinical implications. Their clinical presentation may vary from mild dermatitis to life-threatening pneumonitis and myocarditis. If not managed promptly and vigorously, irAEs may quickly progress to life threatening and fatal events. In addition, the morbidity associated with irAEs and its impact on quality of life can be sufficiently significant to mandate a dose modification or discontinuation of an otherwise beneficial therapy. With increasing use of immunotherapeutic agents in the treatment of cancer, the incidence of irAEs is on the rise. However, validated markers to delineate patients at risk for developing irAEs are still lacking. Therefore, it is extremely important for physicians to have awareness and a high index of suspicion for early recognition and prompt treatment of irAEs. This presentation will focus on clinical presentation of irAEs and strategies for improving the management of irAEs.