Immune‐related adverse events in non‐small cell lung cancer: Occurrence, mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

Abstract

Abstract The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has heralded a transformative era in the therapeutic landscape of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). While ICIs have demonstrated clinical efficacy in a portion of patients with NSCLC, these treatments concurrently precipitate a spectrum of immune‐related adverse events (irAEs), encompassing mild to severe manifestations, collectively posing a risk of significant organ damage. Consequently, there exists an imperative to augment our comprehension of the pathophysiological underpinnings of irAEs and to formulate more efficacious preventive and ameliorative strategies. In this comprehensive review, we delineate the clinical presentation of organ‐specific irAEs in patients with NSCLC and provide an in‐depth analysis of recent advancements in understanding the mechanisms driving ICI‐induced toxicity. Furthermore, we discuss potential strategies and targets for ameliorating these irAEs. Ultimately, this review aims to furnish valuable insights to guide further research endeavours in the context of irAEs in NSCLC patients.

Keywords

• immune checkpoint inhibitors
• immune‐related adverse events
• mechanism
• non‐small cell lung cancer