Immune-Mediated Adverse Effects of Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Clinical Experience

Abstract

Autoimmune adverse effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are rare but may be life-threatening. We performed a retrospective analysis of the immune-related adverse effects (irAEs) of ICIs in the Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute (MMCI) from 2011 to 2021. The ICIs were administered to 648 patients. Severe irAEs were pronounced in 83 patients (12.8 %). Further, we report a case of severe irAE after treatment with ipilimumab and nivolumab. Prednisone, mesalazine, octreotide, infliximab, vedolizumab, and mycophenolate mofetil were used to manage G4 colitis, with partial response. Early diagnosis and appropriate management of irAE are essential in the perspective of further oncological treatment.

Keywords

• immune checkpoint inhibitors
• immunotherapy
• adverse effect
• autoimmunity