Immune-Related Adverse Events of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Ann Intern Med. 2024 Feb;177(2):ITC17-ITC32. doi: 10.7326/AITC202402200. Epub 2024 Feb 13.

Abstract

Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are toxicities that arise after the administration of monoclonal antibodies targeting immune checkpoints (immune checkpoint inhibitors [ICIs]) in patients with cancer. They can occur at any time after initiation of ICI treatment, with a broad clinical phenotype that can be organ-specific or systemic. Although most irAEs manifest as mild to moderate signs and symptoms, severe forms of irAEs can lead to irreversible organ failure and have acute life-threatening presentations. Treatment should be tailored to the specific organ involved and the severity. Glucocorticoids are the first-line treatment for most irAEs, with immunosuppressants and biologics mainly used as second-line treatments.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors* / adverse effects
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Immunotherapy
  • Neoplasms* / etiology

Substances

  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Immunosuppressive Agents