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Stavropoulou De Lorenzo S, Andravizou A, Alexopoulos H, Michailidou I, Bokas A, Kesidou E, Boziki MK, Parissis D, Bakirtzis C, Grigoriadis N. Neurological Immune-Related Adverse Events Induced by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1319. [PMID: 38927526 PMCID: PMC11202292 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for the treatment of various advanced and aggressive types of malignancy has significantly increased both survival and long-term remission rates. ICIs block crucial inhibitory pathways of the immune system, in order to trigger an aggravated immune response against the tumor. However, this enhanced immune activation leads to the development of numerous immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which may affect any system. Although severe neurological irAEs are relatively rare, they carry a high disability burden, and they can be potentially life-threatening. Therefore, clinicians must be alert and act promptly when individuals receiving ICIs present with new-onset neurological symptoms. In this narrative review, we have collected all the currently available data regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of post-ICI neurological irAEs. This review aims to raise physicians' awareness, enrich their knowledge regarding disease pathogenesis, and guide them through the diagnosis and management of post-ICI neurological irAEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotiria Stavropoulou De Lorenzo
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
| | - Athina Andravizou
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
| | - Harry Alexopoulos
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, University Campus, 15784 Athens, Greece;
| | - Iliana Michailidou
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
| | - Alexandros Bokas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Theageneio Cancer Hospital, 54639 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Evangelia Kesidou
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
| | - Marina-Kleopatra Boziki
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
| | - Dimitrios Parissis
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
| | - Christos Bakirtzis
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
| | - Nikolaos Grigoriadis
- Second Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.S.D.L.); (A.A.); (I.M.); (E.K.); (M.-K.B.); (D.P.); (N.G.)
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Tomkins O, Lunn MP. Recent insights into haematology and peripheral nerve disease. Curr Opin Neurol 2024:00019052-990000000-00171. [PMID: 38861221 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The association between clonal haematological disorders and peripheral nerve disease is recognized. Paraproteinaemic phenomena are the most common mechanism, but direct neural lymphomatous infiltration is seen and can be challenging to diagnose. Traditional and novel anticancer therapies have neuropathic side effects. RECENT FINDINGS Novel studies using sensitive techniques are refining the incidence of peripheral neuropathy in patients with a monoclonal gammopathy, and the pathogenesis of IgM Peripheral neuropathy (PN) and POEMS syndrome. Recent series give insight into the characteristics and diagnostic challenges of patients with neurolymphomatosis and amyloid light chain amyloidosis. There is an increasing repertoire of effective anticancer drugs in haematological oncology, but chemotherapy-related neuropathy remains a common side effect. SUMMARY This review of the current literature focuses on recent updates and developments for the paraproteinaemic neuropathies, and the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of peripheral nerve disease due to high-grade and low-grade lymphomas and lymphoproliferative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Tomkins
- Department of Haematology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Michael P Lunn
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
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Speranza D, Santarpia M, Luppino F, Omero F, Maiorana E, Cavaleri M, Sapuppo E, Cianci V, Pugliese A, Racanelli V, Camerino GM, Rodolico C, Silvestris N. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and neurotoxicity: a focus on diagnosis and management for a multidisciplinary approach. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38819976 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2024.2363471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment, the consequential over activation of the immune system is often complicated by adverse events that can affect several organs and systems, including the nervous system. The precise pathophysiology underlying neurological irAEs (n-irAEs) is not completely known. Around 3.8% of patients receiving anti-CTLA-4 agents, 6.1% of patients receiving anti-PD-1/PD-L1, and 12% of patients receiving combination therapies have n-irAEs. Most n-irAEs are low-grade, while severe toxicities have rarely been reported. in this article, we performed an updated literature search on immuno-related neurotoxicity on main medical research database, from February 2017 to December 2023. AREAS COVERED We have also compared the latest national and international guidelines on n-irAEs management with each other in order to better define patient management. EXPERT OPINION A multidisciplinary approach appears necessary in the management of oncological patients during immunotherapy. Therefore, in order to better manage these toxicities, we believe that it is essential to collaborate with neurologists specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of n-irAEs, and that a global neurological assessment, both central and peripheral, is necessary before starting immunotherapy, with regular reassessment during treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desirèe Speranza
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Mariacarmela Santarpia
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Luppino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fausto Omero
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Enrica Maiorana
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Mariacarmela Cavaleri
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Elena Sapuppo
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cianci
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessia Pugliese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Vito Racanelli
- Centre for Medical Sciences (CISMed), University of Trento and Internal Medicine Department, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Carmelo Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Nicola Silvestris
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Zammit F, Seront E. Neurological Adverse Events Related to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Practical Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:501. [PMID: 38675461 PMCID: PMC11053462 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in cancer therapy has brought attention to their associated neurotoxicities, termed neurological immune-related adverse events (n-irAEs). Despite their relatively rare incidence, n-irAEs pose a significant risk, potentially leading to severe, long-lasting disabilities or even fatal outcomes. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of n-irAEs, focusing on their recognition and management. The review addresses a spectrum of n-irAEs, encompassing myositis, myasthenia gravis, various neuropathies, and central nervous system complications, such as encephalitis, meningitis, and demyelinating diseases. The key features of n-irAEs are emphasized in this review, including their early onset after initiation of ICIs, potential association with non-neurological irAEs and/or concurrent oncological response, the significance of ruling out other etiologies, and the expected improvement upon discontinuation of ICIs and/or immunosuppression. Furthermore, this review delves into considerations for ICI re-challenge and the intricate nature of n-irAEs within the context of pre-existing autoimmune and paraneoplastic syndromes. It underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the pivotal role of severity grading in guiding treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emmanuel Seront
- Institut Roi Albert II, Department of Medical Oncology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium;
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Bonilla CE, Ávila V. Immune-Related Peripheral Neuropathy Associated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Case Report and Review of Literature. Case Rep Oncol Med 2024; 2024:8212943. [PMID: 38596399 PMCID: PMC11003791 DOI: 10.1155/2024/8212943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a group of drugs that have improved outcomes for patients with various cancers. Generally considered safe and well tolerated, these drugs are occasionally linked to immune-mediated or immune-related adverse events. Among these, autoimmune neurological events are rare, displaying varying incidence rates across different studies. Peripheral neuropathy, although one of the more common neurological immune-related events, is at times underestimated. This case report highlights an adult patient diagnosed with metastatic intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Initially, the patient underwent chemoimmunotherapy with gemcitabine, cisplatin, and durvalumab for eight cycles, achieving partial response without significant toxicity. Following this, the patient continued with maintenance monotherapy with durvalumab every 28 days. After completing six cycles of maintenance therapy, the patient suddenly experienced paresthesia and hypoesthesia in four limbs, accompanied by apraxia in the hands that was more pronounced on the right side. Additionally, the patient reported neuropathic pain in the right arm and encountered limitations in certain instrumental activities of daily living. Diagnostic studies, including laboratory and electrophysiological studies, combined with the clinical presentation, identified immune-related peripheral polyneuropathy. Durvalumab was suspended and prednisolone therapy was initiated, resulting in a rapid resolution of all neuropathic symptoms. In addition to the clinical case, this article reviews the literature on immunotherapy-associated peripheral neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Eduardo Bonilla
- Unidad Funcional de Tumores Gastrointestinales, Centro de Tratamiento e Investigación sobre Cáncer Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo (CTIC), Bogotá, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación GIGA, CTIC/Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Vaneza Ávila
- Grupo de Investigación GIGA, CTIC/Universidad El Bosque, Bogotá, Colombia
- Unidad Funcional Asistencial Hospitalización, Centro de Tratamiento e Investigación sobre Cáncer Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo (CTIC), Bogotá, Colombia
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Sarkar A, Nagappa M, Dey S, Mondal S, Babu GS, Choudhury SP, Akhil P, Debnath M. Synergistic effects of immune checkpoints and checkpoint inhibitors in inflammatory neuropathies: Implications and mechanisms. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2024; 29:6-16. [PMID: 37988274 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint molecules play pivotal roles in the regulation of immune homeostasis. Disruption of the immune checkpoints causes autoimmune/inflammatory as well as malignant disorders. Over the past few years, the immune checkpoint molecules with inhibitory function emerged as potential therapeutic targets in oncological conditions. The inhibition of the function of these molecules by using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has brought paradigmatic changes in cancer therapy due to their remarkable clinical benefits, not only in improving the quality of life but also in prolonging the survival time of cancer patients. Unfortunately, the ICIs soon turned out to be a "double-edged sword" as the use of ICIs caused multiple immune-related adverse effects (irAEs). The development of inflammatory neuropathies such as Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) as the secondary effects of immunotherapy appeared very challenging as these conditions result in significant and often permanent disability. The underlying mechanism(s) through which ICIs trigger inflammatory neuropathies are currently not known. Compelling evidence suggests autoimmune reaction and/or inflammation as the independent risk mechanism of inflammatory neuropathies. There is a lack of understanding as to whether prior exposure to the risk factors of inflammatory neuropathies, the presence of germline genetic variants in immune function-related genes, genetic variations within immune checkpoint molecules, the existence of autoantibodies, and activated/memory T cells act as determining factors for ICI-induced inflammatory neuropathies. Herein, we highlight the available pieces of evidence, discuss the mechanistic basis, and propose a few testable hypotheses on inflammatory neuropathies as irAEs of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aritrani Sarkar
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Madhu Nagappa
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Saikat Dey
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Sandipan Mondal
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Gopika Suresh Babu
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Saptamita Pal Choudhury
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Pokala Akhil
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Monojit Debnath
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
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Hundsberger T, Schreiner B, Roth P. Immune checkpoint inhibitors induced side effects of the peripheral nervous system. Curr Opin Neurol 2023; 36:427-431. [PMID: 37639489 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review highlights recent knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment of immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced neurological side effects (irNAE) focussing on the neuromuscular system. RECENT FINDINGS irNAEs mainly resemble sporadic neuromuscular autoimmune diseases and paraneoplastic neurological syndromes. However, neurological symptoms may be unspecific (muscle weakness, fatigue) in the oncological setting and carry the risk of misdiagnosis and delayed therapeutic intervention. The role of disease-specific neuromuscular autoantibodies in the diagnosis is controversial as preexisting autoantibodies may otherwise be present before immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment without clinical symptoms and may not develop in case of irNAE manifestation. A new necrotising form of myositis (irMyositis) has been described presenting with facial weakness and ptosis mimicking myasthenia gravis. It comes along with a high rate of severe myocarditis accounting for a triad overlap syndrome (myasthenia/myositis/myocarditis). The role of modern biologicals in the treatment of irNAEs has to be determined. SUMMARY irNAEs are rare but carry the risk of permanent morbidity and mortality. Early suspicion and diagnosis are key to prevent neurological sequelae. Beyond interruption of ICI administration, treatment corresponds to sporadic autoimmune diseases. The myasthenia/myositis/myocarditis overlap syndrome deserves special attention as it carries the highest risk of mortality. The role of neurotoxic pretreatment regimens, preexisting subclinical neurological autoimmune diseases and the risk of ICI-re-challenge after irNAEs has to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Hundsberger
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology, Cantonal Hospital, St. Gallen
| | - Bettina Schreiner
- Department of Neurology, University of Zurich, University Hospital of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Roth
- Department of Neurology, University of Zurich, University Hospital of Zurich, Switzerland
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Alsalem AN, Scarffe LA, Briemberg HR, Aaroe AE, Harrison RA. Neurologic Complications of Cancer Immunotherapy. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:5876-5897. [PMID: 37366923 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30060440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment over the past decade. As it is increasingly introduced into routine clinical practice, immune-related complications have become more frequent. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential, with the goal of reduced patient morbidity. This review aims to discuss the various clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis of neurologic complications associated with the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive T-cell therapies, and T-cell redirecting therapies. We also outline a suggested clinical approach related to the clinical use of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aseel N Alsalem
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada
| | - Leslie A Scarffe
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada
| | - Hannah R Briemberg
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada
| | - Ashley E Aaroe
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rebecca A Harrison
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology, BC Cancer, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6, Canada
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