Diagnosis and Management of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-related Toxicities in Ovarian Cancer: A Series of Case Vignettes

Clin Ther. 2018 Mar;40(3):389-394. doi: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2018.02.011. Epub 2018 Mar 5.

Abstract

Use of immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 and programmed cell death protein 1 have led to improved survival outcomes for advanced solid-tumor malignancies. This report helps the reader gain a better understanding of adverse events in patients with ovarian cancer on checkpoint inhibitor therapy. We describe 3 hypothetical case vignettes of patients with gynecologic cancer on checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy and discuss common immune-related adverse events. The typical presentation and onset of immune-related events are different from those associated with conventional chemotherapy. This report highlights the importance of early recognition and management of these events.

Keywords: anti-CTLA-4; anti-PD1; hypophysitis; immune checkpoint inhibitors; pneumonitis; thyroiditis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological / pharmacology*
  • CTLA-4 Antigen / immunology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / adverse effects
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Middle Aged
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / immunology

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological
  • CTLA-4 Antigen
  • CTLA4 protein, human
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor