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Yang H, Ding Z, An Z, Zhao Y, Lu H. Immune checkpoint inhibitor related myositis: an observational, retrospective, pharmacovigilance study. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2024:1-6. [PMID: 38629402 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2024.2343023] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show promise in cancer treatment, but recent cases highlight myositis as a serious complication. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We did a retrospective study on drug safety using FAERS data up to Q3 2022, focusing on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and myositis. We used IC and ROR to assess the association. Logistic regression in R 3.2.5 helped identify factors linked to fatal outcomes. RESULTS We identified 558 cases of ICIs-associated myositis. Our study found a significant link between ICIs and myositis (ROR 15.54 [14.23-16.96], IC 3.79 [3.66-3.92], see Figure 1). Notably, myositis was more common in patients on ICI combination therapy compared to monotherapy (ROR 1.72 [1.39-2.11], IC 0.63 [0.30-0.93]). Age increased the risk of ICI-associated myositis and was also a factor in fatality (p = 0.011). Common accompanying adverse events included myocarditis (21.33%), severe myasthenia gravis (16.49%), and malignant neoplasm progression (8.06%). Fatal cases were more common when myositis was accompanied by myocarditis, severe myasthenia gravis, or malignant neoplasm progression. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians must note the risk of ICI-associated myositis, especially dangerous in older patients or when combined with other issues like myocarditis or severe myasthenia gravis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhexin Ding
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuoling An
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Faculty of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hezhe Lu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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2
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Cuenca JA, Hanmandlu A, Wegner R, Botdorf J, Tummala S, Iliescu CA, Nates JL, Reddy DR. Management of respiratory failure in immune checkpoint inhibitors-induced overlap syndrome: a case series and review of the literature. BMC Anesthesiol 2023; 23:310. [PMID: 37700240 PMCID: PMC10496364 DOI: 10.1186/s12871-023-02257-z] [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: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Checkpoint inhibitor-induced overlap syndrome ([OS] myocarditis, and myositis with or without myasthenia gravis) is rare but life-threatening. CASES PRESENTATION Here we present a case series of four cancer patients that developed OS. High troponinemia raised the concern for myocarditis in all the cases. However, the predominant clinical feature differed among the cases. Two patients showed marked myocarditis with a shorter hospital stay. The other two patients had a prolonged ICU stay due to severe neuromuscular involvement secondary to myositis and myasthenia gravis. Treatment was based on steroids, plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin, and immunosuppressive biological agents. CONCLUSION The management of respiratory failure is challenging, particularly in those patients with predominant MG. Along with intensive clinical monitoring, bedside respiratory mechanics can guide the decision-making process of selecting a respiratory support method, the timing of elective intubation and extubation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Cuenca
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ankit Hanmandlu
- McGovern School of Medicine, University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robert Wegner
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Joshua Botdorf
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sudhakar Tummala
- Department of Neuro-oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cezar A Iliescu
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joseph L Nates
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dereddi R Reddy
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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3
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Seligman C, Chang YM, Luo J, Garden OA. Exploring the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the etiology of myasthenia gravis and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome: A systematic review. Front Neurol 2023; 13:1004810. [PMID: 36698907 PMCID: PMC9868566 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1004810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background While immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been revolutionary in the treatment of cancer, their administration has been associated with a variety of immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including myasthenia gravis (MG), and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). Objective To provide a comprehensive synthesis of the evidence supporting an etiological role for ICIs in MG and LEMS in patients with no prior history of autoimmune disease. Hypothesis ICIs may trigger MG and LEMS in patients with no prior susceptibility to autoimmune disease. Methods Relevant primary research on Medline was interrogated using a series of search algorithms. Search terms were constructed based on the PICOS tool endorsed by the Cochrane Collaboration, which describes population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study design. Papers were screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Additional papers were retrieved from the reference lists of screened papers. Each paper included in the qualitative synthesis was assigned an integrated metric of evidence (IME) value, ranging from 0 to 7, based on study design, quality of data, likelihood of a causal link between the immune checkpoint inhibitor(s) and MG/LEMS, confidence of MG/LEMS diagnosis, and the number of patients treated with an ICI prior to MG/LEMS diagnosis. Results Ninety-four papers describing at least one patient treated with ICI(s) prior to the onset of MG and/or LEMS were documented. Overall evidence for a causal link between ICI administration and MG/LEMS was low, with a median IME value of 2.88 (range 2.05-6.61). Conclusions There is a paucity of evidence in support of an etiological relationship between ICIs and MG/LEMS, due largely to the lack of mechanistic studies and/or prospective clinical trials with relevant study endpoints. The current literature is dominated by case reports and retrospective cohort studies, which inherently yield only low-level evidence, supporting the need for further work in this area. A role of ICIs in the etiology of MG/LEMS remains plausible, arguing for continued vigilance for irAEs in patients treated with these drugs. We argue that there is a need for future mechanistic, high quality, large-scale studies specifically investigating the possible etiological role of ICIs in MG/LEMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Seligman
- Garden & Luo Immune Regulation Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Yu-Mei Chang
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jie Luo
- Garden & Luo Immune Regulation Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Oliver A. Garden
- Garden & Luo Immune Regulation Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States,Dean's Office, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States,*Correspondence: Oliver A. Garden ✉
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4
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Soman B, Dias MC, Rizvi SAJ, Kardos A. Myasthenia gravis, myositis and myocarditis: a fatal triad of immune-related adverse effect of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:e251966. [PMID: 36593626 PMCID: PMC9743272 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-251966] [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] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pembrolizumab, a humanised monoclonal antibody and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) that blocks programmed death receptor 1 and its ligands, is an effective immunotherapy for malignancies such as melanoma, lung, head and neck, cancers, and Hodgkin's lymphoma. It has an overall response rate between 73% and 83%, with complete response rate of 27%-30%. It is well tolerated with minor side effects in 70% of cases characterised by fatigue, rash, pruritus and diarrhoea. In rare cases, more serious and life-threatening complications can occur at a rate of 0.3%-1.3%. We report a case of a woman in her 70s with non-small-cell lung cancer treated with ICI. She presented to the emergency department with left-sided ptosis and muscle weakness 3 weeks of her first dose of pembrolizumab infusion as a treatment plan of her cancer. She was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, myocarditis and myositis as ICI-induced immune-related adverse effects resistant to medical intervention. We wish to raise awareness of the triad of life-threatening complication of ICI therapy that accounts for 30%-50% of fatal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biji Soman
- Department of Cardiology, Milton Keynes University Hospital, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Maria Cecilia Dias
- Department of Oncology, Milton Keynes University Hospital, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Syed Azhar J Rizvi
- Department of Oncology, Milton Keynes University Hospital, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Attila Kardos
- Department of Cardiology, Milton Keynes University Hospital, Milton Keynes, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Buckingham, Buckingham, UK
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5
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Ono R, Iwai Y, Yamazaki T, Takahashi H, Hori Y, Fukushima K, Saotome T. Nivolumab-induced Myositis and Myocarditis with Positive Anti-titin Antibody and Anti-voltage-gated Potassium Channel Kv1.4 Antibody. Intern Med 2022; 61:2973-2979. [PMID: 35314545 PMCID: PMC9593150 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.8772-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are complicated by immune-related adverse events (irAEs), such as myositis, myocarditis, and myasthenia gravis (MG). Anti-titin antibody and anti-voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.4 antibody are anti-striated antibodies that are frequently detected in MG patients with myositis and/or myocarditis. However, the clinical relationship between positive anti-striated antibodies and irAEs of ICIs remains unknown. We herein report a case of nivolumab-induced myositis and myocarditis with positive anti-titin antibody and anti-voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.4 antibody in a patient with non-small-cell lung cancer. We also review reported cases of positive anti-striated antibodies related to irAEs of ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryohei Ono
- Department of Cardiology, Matsudo City General Hospital, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yuta Iwai
- Department of Neurology, Matsudo City General Hospital, Japan
| | | | | | - Yasuhiko Hori
- Department of Cardiology, Matsudo City General Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Takashi Saotome
- Department of Medical Oncology, Matsudo City General Hospital, Japan
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Cozma A, Sporis ND, Lazar AL, Buruiana A, Ganea AM, Malinescu TV, Berechet BM, Fodor A, Sitar-Taut AV, Vlad VC, Negrean V, Orasan OH. Cardiac Toxicity Associated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810948. [PMID: 36142866 PMCID: PMC9502843 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are an important advancement in the field of cancer treatment, significantly improving the survival of patients with a series of advanced malignancies, like melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and Hodgkin lymphoma. ICIs act upon T lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells, targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1), programmed cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1), and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), breaking the immune tolerance of the T cells against malignant cells and enhancing the body's own immune response. A variety of cardiac-adverse effects are associated with ICI-based treatment, including pericarditis, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, and acute coronary syndrome, with myocarditis being the most studied due to its often-unexpected onset and severity. Overall, Myocarditis is rare but presents an immune-related adverse event (irAE) that has a high fatality rate. Considering the rising number of oncological patients treated with ICIs and the severity of their potential adverse effects, a good understanding and continuous investigation of cardiac irAEs is of the utmost importance. This systematic review aimed to revise recent publications (between 2016-2022) on ICI-induced cardiac toxicities and highlight the therapeutical approach and evolution in the selected cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Cozma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Nicolae Dan Sporis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Prof. Dr. I. Chiricuta Oncology Institute, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrada Luciana Lazar
- Department of Dermatology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Buruiana
- Department of Medical Oncology, Prof. Dr. I. Chiricuta Oncology Institute, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Andreea Maria Ganea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Toma Vlad Malinescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bianca Mihaela Berechet
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adriana Fodor
- Clinical Centre of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Disease, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adela Viviana Sitar-Taut
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vasile Calin Vlad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vasile Negrean
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Olga Hilda Orasan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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7
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Ronen D, Bsoul A, Lotem M, Abedat S, Yarkoni M, Amir O, Asleh R. Exploring the Mechanisms Underlying the Cardiotoxic Effects of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapies. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10040540. [PMID: 35455289 PMCID: PMC9031363 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10040540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Adaptive immune response modulation has taken a central position in cancer therapy in recent decades. Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is now indicated in many cancer types with exceptional results. The two major inhibitory pathways involved are cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1). Unfortunately, immune activation is not tumor-specific, and as a result, most patients will experience some form of adverse reaction. Most immune-related adverse events (IRAEs) involve the skin and gastrointestinal (GI) tract; however, any organ can be involved. Cardiotoxicity ranges from arrhythmias to life-threatening myocarditis with very high mortality rates. To date, most treatments of ICI cardiotoxicity include immune suppression, which is also not cardiac-specific and may result in hampering of tumor clearance. Understanding the mechanisms behind immune activation in the heart is crucial for the development of specific treatments. Histological data and other models have shown mainly CD4 and CD8 infiltration during ICI-induced cardiotoxicity. Inhibition of CTLA4 seems to result in the proliferation of more diverse T0cell populations, some of which with autoantigen recognition. Inhibition of PD-1 interaction with PD ligand 1/2 (PD-L1/PD-L2) results in release from inhibition of exhausted self-recognizing T cells. However, CTLA4, PD-1, and their ligands are expressed on a wide range of cells, indicating a much more intricate mechanism. This is further complicated by the identification of multiple co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory signals, as well as the association of myocarditis with antibody-driven myasthenia gravis and myositis IRAEs. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in unraveling the complexity of the mechanisms driving ICI cardiotoxicity and discuss novel therapeutic strategies for directly targeting specific underlying mechanisms to reduce IRAEs and improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ronen
- Department of Internal Medicine D, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel;
| | - Aseel Bsoul
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Heart Institute, Hadassah University Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel; (A.B.); (S.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Michal Lotem
- Department of Oncology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel;
| | - Suzan Abedat
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Heart Institute, Hadassah University Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel; (A.B.); (S.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Merav Yarkoni
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Institute, Hadassah University Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel;
| | - Offer Amir
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Heart Institute, Hadassah University Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel; (A.B.); (S.A.); (O.A.)
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Institute, Hadassah University Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel;
| | - Rabea Asleh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Heart Institute, Hadassah University Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel; (A.B.); (S.A.); (O.A.)
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Institute, Hadassah University Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-2-6776564; Fax: +972-2-6411028
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8
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Ruggiero R, Stelitano B, Fraenza F, di Mauro G, Scavone C, Sportiello L, Rafaniello C, Di Napoli R, Danesi R, Del Re M, Rossi F, Capuano A. Neurological Manifestations Related to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Reverse Translational Research by Using the European Real-World Safety Data. Front Oncol 2022; 12:824511. [PMID: 35372076 PMCID: PMC8964934 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.824511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are widely used improving clinical outcomes in many cancer patients. However, they can induce serious consequences, like neurological immune-related adverse drug reactions (NirADRs). Although these are rare complications, they can be serious with important impact on patients' quality of life. Our purpose is to describe these adverse events observed in the European clinical practice context. We carried out a descriptive analysis of individual case safety reports (ICSRs) related to ICIs collected until February 7, 2020, in the European spontaneous reporting database, EudraVigilance, and reported nervous disorders as suspect adverse drug reactions (ADRs). NirADRs were classified according to the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA). In order to identify a hypothetical different reporting probability of the NirADR types between the ICI classes, we carried out a disproportionality analysis. The reporting odds ratio (ROR) with 95% CI was computed comparing the different ICI classes to each other based on their pharmacological target [the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), the programmed death-1 (PD-1) or its ligand (PD-L1)]. Finally, we researched in the literature the hypothesized mechanisms, which could explain the onset of these ICI-related neurological complications. Overall, we found 4,875 cases describing 6,429 ICI-related suspected NirADRs. ICI-related neurotoxicities include a wide range of central and peripheral events. These were mainly related to anti-PD-1 agents and occurred in male patients (59%). Our analysis confirmed a gender difference of NirADRs. Twenty-three percent of the events (comprising myasthenia gravis, neuropathy peripheral, and cerebral infarction) had unfavorable fallouts, including fatal outcome (7%). Majority of the NirADRs were categorized as "Neurological disorders NEC" HLGTs MedDRA (2,076; 32%). In 1,094 cases (22%), more NirADRs overlapped with other neurologic complications. An interesting overlapping of myasthenia gravis with myositis or myocarditis emerged. From our disproportionality analysis, an increased reporting probability of peripheral neuropathies and headaches emerged with ipilimumab when compared to anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 agents. However, neuromuscular disorders were more probably reported with anti-PD-1. Several pathogenic mechanisms, including neuronal damage by T cells and autoantibodies and/or cytokine-mediated inflammation processes, have been hypothesized. However, the pathogenesis of these ICI-related complications is not completely understood. Considering the recent marketing authorizations of ICIs, further studies are strongly needed to monitor their neurologic safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Ruggiero
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Stelitano
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Fraenza
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella di Mauro
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Scavone
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Liberata Sportiello
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Rafaniello
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Di Napoli
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
| | - Romano Danesi
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marzia Del Re
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Rossi
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Annalisa Capuano
- Campania Regional Centre for Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Pharmacology “L. Donatelli”, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
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Komatsu M, Hirai M, Kobayashi K, Hashidate H, Fukumoto J, Sato A, Usuda H, Tanaka K, Takahashi K, Kuwabara S. A rare case of nivolumab-related myasthenia gravis and myocarditis in a patient with metastatic gastric cancer. BMC Gastroenterol 2021; 21:333. [PMID: 34445963 PMCID: PMC8393464 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-021-01904-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although rare, several immune-related adverse effects can be life-threatening. Here, we describe a metastatic gastric cancer patient presenting with nivolumab-related myasthenia gravis and myocarditis, a previously unreported adverse effect of gastric cancer treatment. Case presentation A 66-year-old man with metastatic gastric cancer visited the emergency department because of dizziness after the first dose of nivolumab. Diagnoses of nivolumab-related myasthenia gravis and myocarditis were established. Myocardial biopsy results and anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody positivity confirmed the diagnoses. Despite plasma exchange and intravenous methylprednisolone and immunoglobulin administration, the patient’s general condition gradually worsened, and he died. Conclusions Strict monitoring for cardiac and neuromuscular symptoms after nivolumab administration is necessary to rapidly treat these adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Komatsu
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Niigata City General Hospital, Shumoku, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 463-7, Japan.
| | - Motoharu Hirai
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Niigata City General Hospital, Shumoku, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 463-7, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Kobayashi
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Niigata City General Hospital, Shumoku, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 463-7, Japan
| | - Hideki Hashidate
- Department of Pathology, Niigata City General Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Junki Fukumoto
- Department of Neurology, Niigata City General Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Aki Sato
- Department of Neurology, Niigata City General Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hideki Usuda
- Department of Cardiology, Niigata City General Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Komei Tanaka
- Department of Cardiology, Niigata City General Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | | | - Shirou Kuwabara
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Niigata City General Hospital, Shumoku, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 463-7, Japan
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10
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Diamanti L, Picca A, Bini P, Gastaldi M, Alfonsi E, Pichiecchio A, Rota E, Rudà R, Bruno F, Villani V, Galiè E, Vogrig A, Valente M, Zoccarato M, Poretto V, Giometto B, Cimminiello C, Del Vecchio M, Marchioni E. Characterization and management of neurological adverse events during immune-checkpoint inhibitors treatment: an Italian multicentric experience. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:2031-2041. [PMID: 34424427 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05561-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurological immune-related adverse events (nirAEs) are rare toxicities of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). With the increase of ICI oncological indications, their incidence is growing. Their recognition and management remain nevertheless challenging. METHODS A national, web-based database was built to collect cases of neurological symptoms in patients receiving ICI and not attributable to other causes after an adequate workup. RESULTS We identified 27 patients who developed nirAEs (20 males, median age 69 years). Patients received anti-PD1/PDL1 (78%), anti-CTLA4 (4%), or both (19%). Most common cancers were melanoma (30%) and non-small cell lung cancer (26%). Peripheral nervous system was mostly affected (78%). Median time to onset was 43.5 days and was shorter for peripheral versus central nervous system toxicities (36 versus 144.5 days, p = 0.045). Common manifestations were myositis (33%), inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathies (33%), and myasthenia gravis (19%), alone or in combination, but the spectrum of diagnoses was broad. Most patients received first-line glucocorticoids (85%) or IVIg (15%). Seven patients (26%) needed second-line treatments. At last follow-up, four (15%) patients were deceased (encephalitis, 1; myositis/myasthenia with concomitant myocarditis, 2; acute polyradiculoneuropathy, 1), while seven (26%) had a complete remission, eight (30%) partial improvement, and six (22%) stable/progressing symptoms. ICI treatment was discontinued in most patients (78%). CONCLUSIONS Neurological irAEs are rare but potentially fatal. They primarily affect neuromuscular structures but encompass a broad range of presentations. A prompt recognition is mandatory to timely withheld immunotherapy and administrate glucocorticoids. In corticoresistant or severely affected patients, second-line treatments with IVIg or plasmapheresis may result in additional benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Diamanti
- "C. Mondino" National Neurological Institute, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alberto Picca
- "C. Mondino" National Neurological Institute, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Paola Bini
- "C. Mondino" National Neurological Institute, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Gastaldi
- "C. Mondino" National Neurological Institute, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Enrico Alfonsi
- "C. Mondino" National Neurological Institute, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Pichiecchio
- "C. Mondino" National Neurological Institute, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Rota
- Neurology Unit, Ospedale San Giacomo, Novi Ligure, ASL Alessandria, Italy
| | - Roberta Rudà
- Castelfranco Veneto Hospital, Castelfranco Veneto, Italy
| | - Francesco Bruno
- University and City of Health and Science of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Edvina Galiè
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Vogrig
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Presidio Ospedaliero Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Valente
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Presidio Ospedaliero Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Zoccarato
- UOC Neurologia O.S.A. - Azienda Ospedale Università Di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Valentina Poretto
- Department of Emergency, Neurology Unit, Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy
| | - Bruno Giometto
- Department of Emergency, Neurology Unit, Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy
| | | | | | - Enrico Marchioni
- "C. Mondino" National Neurological Institute, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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11
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Pathak R, Katel A, Massarelli E, Villaflor VM, Sun V, Salgia R. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Myocarditis with Myositis/Myasthenia Gravis Overlap Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Cases. Oncologist 2021; 26:1052-1061. [PMID: 34378270 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) represents a paradigm shift in the treatment of cancers. Despite showing remarkable efficacy, these agents can be associated with life-threatening immune-related adverse events. In recent years, several cases of myocarditis with myositis and/or myasthenia gravis overlap syndrome (IM3OS) have been reported. However, given the rarity, the clinical features and outcomes of these cases remain poorly understood. We, therefore, attempted to systematically review and summarize all cases of IM3OS reported in the literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS Studies reporting IM3OS were identified in Embase and MEDLINE. Only case reports and case series published in journals or presented at conferences were included. We conducted a systematic review according to the PRISMA Harms guidelines. RESULTS A total of 60 cases were eligible. The patients' median age was 71 years, and the majority (67%) were males; melanoma was the most common indication for ICIs (38%). The most-reported symptoms were fatigue (80%) and muscle weakness (78%). The median number of doses to the development of IM3OS was one. The average creatine kinase level was 9,645 IU/L. Cardiac arrhythmias occurred in 67% of patients, and 18% had depressed ejection fraction. Initial treatment consisted of immunosuppression with high-dose steroids and supportive therapies. Sixty percent of the patients died in hospital because of acute complications. CONCLUSION IM3OS can be associated with significant mortality and morbidity. Prospective studies are needed to understand the optimal approach to diagnose and manage these patients and to develop biomarkers to predict the occurrence and severity of this rare but serious condition. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Clinicians should suspect coexisting myositis and/or myasthenia gravis in all patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myocarditis, given their propensity to occur together. Early recognition and prompt treatment with the help of a multidisciplinary team might help improve the outcomes of this life-threatening condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjan Pathak
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Anjan Katel
- Department of Medicine, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Erminia Massarelli
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Victoria M Villaflor
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Virginia Sun
- Department of Population Science, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Ravi Salgia
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
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12
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Matzen E, Bartels LE, Løgstrup B, Horskær S, Stilling C, Donskov F. Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myocarditis in cancer patients: a case report and review of reported cases. CARDIO-ONCOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2021; 7:27. [PMID: 34365980 PMCID: PMC8351114 DOI: 10.1186/s40959-021-00114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) induced myocarditis is a rare, severe, and often fatal adverse event. Evidence to guide appropriate immunosuppressive therapy is scarce. We present a case of ICI-induced myocarditis and a review of ICI-induced myocarditis cases to determine the most effective immunosuppressive therapeutic strategy for ICI-induced myocarditis. METHODS A systematic search of PubMed was carried out for treatment of ICI-induced myocarditis. Reference lists from identified articles were manually reviewed for additional cases. RESULTS A total of 87 cases with ICI-induced myocarditis were identified. The majority were melanoma (n = 39), lung cancer (n = 19), renal cell cancer (n = 10), and thymoma cancer patients (n = 4). In 38 (44%) cases, patients received high-dose steroid treatment only. A total of 49 (56%) cases were treated with immunosuppressive agents other than steroid; a total of 13 different immunosuppressive agents were used, including alemtuzumab or abatacept. The median time to onset of symptoms after initiation of ICI was 16 days (range, 1-196 days); cardiotoxic symptoms developed after 2 cycles of ICI (range, 1-13 cycles). A total of 48% of cases were fatal. In cases treated with high-dose steroids only vs. cases treated with other immunosuppressive agents, fatality was 55% and 43% respectively. In 64 out of the 87 cases, tumor control was not described. In patients treated with high-dose steroids only, two patients had stable disease as best tumor response; in patients treated with other immunosuppressive agents, one complete response, one partial response and seven stable disease were noted as best tumor response. Overall, 11 studies were at low risk of bias (12.6%), 38 at moderate risk of bias (43.7%) and 38 at high risk of bias (43.7%). CONCLUSION Immune checkpoint inhibitor induced myocarditis is a serious and often fatal adverse event. High-dose prednisolone, alemtuzumab or abatacept are all possible treatments options for ICI-induced myocarditis, whereas infliximab increases the risk of death from cardiovascular causes, and should be avoided. Further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Matzen
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Lars Erik Bartels
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Brian Løgstrup
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Stine Horskær
- Department of Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Frede Donskov
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
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13
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Lipe DN, Galvis-Carvajal E, Rajha E, Wechsler AH, Gaeta S. Immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated myasthenia gravis, myositis, and myocarditis overlap syndrome. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 46:51-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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14
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Zarifa A, Kim JW, Lopez-Mattei J, Palaskas N, Iliescu C, Kim PY. Cardiac Toxicities Associated with Immune Checkpoints Inhibitors: Mechanisms, Manifestations and Management. Korean Circ J 2021; 51:579-597. [PMID: 34227272 PMCID: PMC8263294 DOI: 10.4070/kcj.2021.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) associated cardiovascular adverse events (CVAE) have become more frequent with the growing use of cancer immunotherapy. CVAEs include a wide spectrum of diseases such as myocarditis, pericarditis, heart failure, arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and hypertension. The induction of cardiovascular side effects by ICI use is hypothesized to occur due to inflammation and immune dysregulation of normal tissue in response to immunotherapy. Management of ICI-associated CVAEs mitigates an overactive immune response by utilizing steroids, immunomodulatory drugs and hemodynamic stabilization. However, few controlled studies on the cardiovascular safety of ICIs exist and treatment of their side effects are mostly from limited case series. Our review seeks to provide the most recent understanding of ICI-associated CVAEs and their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrazzak Zarifa
- Department of Medicine, Brookdale Hospital University and Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Jin Wan Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Juan Lopez-Mattei
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nicolas Palaskas
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cezar Iliescu
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peter Y Kim
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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15
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Frayberg M, Yung A, Zubiri L, Zlotoff DA, Reynolds KL. What the Cardiologist Needs to Know About Cancer Immunotherapies and Complications. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2021; 22:53. [PMID: 34037918 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-021-00844-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Immunotherapies have transformed the current landscape for cancer treatment and demonstrated unparalleled improvements in survival rates. Now, a third of cancer patients are eligible for treatment with the most widely used class of immunotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). As more patients are treated with these novel agents, it is critical for both oncologists and subspecialists to establish a better understanding of the adverse events which can occur. The incidence of myocarditis associated with ICI therapy has been reported to be between 0.27 and 1.14%, 5 times that of myocarditis from other cancer therapies, and, of those patients, 20-50% develop a fulminant form. However, because of unclear risk factors, a broad clinical spectrum, and lack of specific noninvasive studies for diagnosis, the care of patients with ICI-associated cardiotoxicity can be challenging. Here, we have provided a brief overview of the current immunotherapy agents with a focus on the emerging evidence regarding diagnosis and management of cardiac adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Frayberg
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Anthony Yung
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Leyre Zubiri
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel A Zlotoff
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kerry L Reynolds
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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16
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Salim A, Tapia Rico G, Shaikh A, Brown MP. A systematic review of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related neurological adverse events and association with anti-neuronal autoantibodies. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 21:1237-1251. [PMID: 33645372 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2021.1897101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) therapy has led to a paradigm shift in cancer drug development and in the clinical evaluation of approaches to combination cancer treatment. Dysregulation of the immune system by ICI therapy may also elicit autoimmune phenomena and consequently manifest clinically as immune-related adverse events (irAEs) including neurological irAEs. Areas Covered: The purpose of this review is to explore the role of autoantibodies in the diagnosis and prediction of neurological irAEs and to evaluate their pathogenicity. We searched Pubmed and Embase for neurological irAEs and associated autoantibodies and found 28 patients with central and peripheral neurological irAEs. Of these patients, up to 40% had encephalitis, 34.4% with myasthenia gravis and 22% of patients with peripheral neuropathy and Guillain-Barre Syndrome had autoantibodies. Expert Opinion: Overall, our survey suggested a causal relationship between neurological irAEs and autoantibodies. Detection of autoantibodies may help to diagnose neurological irAEs and inform their clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Salim
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - G Tapia Rico
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - A Shaikh
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - M P Brown
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
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17
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Concomitant development of neurologic and cardiac immune-related adverse effects in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors for melanoma. Melanoma Res 2020; 30:484-491. [PMID: 32898389 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have altered the prognosis of patients with melanoma over the past few years, with immune-related adverse effects (irAEs) being the only factor limiting their use. Neurologic and cardiac irAEs are rare, but usually severe. We reviewed the files of patients with melanoma treated with ICIs in one center to retrieve data from patients with neurologic irAEs. Patients with a combination of neurologic and cardiac manifestations were further analyzed. We also reviewed the literature for similar syndromes. Five out of 482 (1.01%) patients developed a neurologic syndrome and we present three patients with a constellation of neurologic and cardiac irAEs. A 66-year-old woman and a 68-year-old man presented with a constellation of findings after being treated with ipilimumab and nivolumab, respectively, for melanoma in the adjuvant setting and were eventually diagnosed with myasthenia gravis with cardiac involvement. An 80-year-old woman developed diffuse asymmetric muscle weakness, bilateral ptosis and asymptomatic high serum troponin levels after adjuvant treatment with nivolumab and ipilimumab for a stage IIIB melanoma. After excluding ischemic heart disease, she was diagnosed with axonal polyradiculoneuropathy and myocarditis. Neurologic or cardiac irAEs in patients treated with ICIs are uncommon (<1%), but usually severe, with high rates of morbidity and fatality. The co-development of neurologic and cardiac irAEs is even more rare and can arise soon after exposure to ICIs and escalate rapidly. Since more and more patients are now treated with ICIs in the adjuvant setting, prompt identification and management are essential to avoid serious complications or death.
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18
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Fan S, Ren H, Zhao L, Yin J, Feng G, Wang J, Guan H. Neurological immune‐related adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: A review of the literature. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2020; 16:291-298. [PMID: 32893999 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.13375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Fan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Haitao Ren
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Luo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Jian Yin
- Department of Neurology Beijing Hospital Beijing China
| | - Guodong Feng
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tongren Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Hongzhi Guan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
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19
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Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) 2020 clinical practice recommendations for the management of immune-mediated cardiovascular, rheumatic, and renal toxicities from checkpoint inhibitors. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:6159-6173. [PMID: 32856212 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05710-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have emerged as the newest pillar of cancer treatment. Immune-mediated toxicities, stemming from increased activity within the T cell lineage, range from asymptomatic or mild complications to those that are fulminant and potentially fatal. Although they are of variable occurrence, cardiovascular, rheumatic, and renal immune-mediated toxicities are among the most serious of these adverse events. We present MASCC recommendations with respect to the workup and management of cardiovascular, rheumatic, and renal immune-mediated toxicities with a focus on presentations that require treatment with immunomodulating agents.
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20
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Huang YT, Chen YP, Lin WC, Su WC, Sun YT. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Myasthenia Gravis. Front Neurol 2020; 11:634. [PMID: 32765397 PMCID: PMC7378376 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has been a major breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy. The increasing use of ICIs has led to the discovery of a broad spectrum of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Immune-related myasthenia gravis (irMG) is a rare but life-threatening irAE. In this review, the clinical presentations of irMG are described and the risk of irMG-related mortality is examined using information from relevant studies. In 47 reported cases of irMG with clear causes of mortality, irMG appeared to be a distinct category of neuromuscular disorders and differed from classical MG in terms of its demographic patient characteristics, pathogenesis, serology profile, response to treatment, associated complications, and prognosis. Because of the high mortality of irMG, measures to increase the vigilance of medical teams are necessary to ensure the timely identification of the signs of irMG and early treatment, particularly in the early course of ICI therapy. The diagnostic plans should be comprehensive and include the evaluation of other organ systems, such as the dermatological, gastrointestinal, respiratory, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular systems, in addition to the traditional diagnostic tests for MG. Treatment plans should be individualized on the basis of the extent of organ involvement and clinical severity. Additional therapeutic studies on irMG in the future are required to minimize irAE-related mortality and increase the safety of patients with cancer in the ICI era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Te Huang
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ping Chen
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chih Lin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chi Mei Medical Centre-Chiali Branch, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Chou Su
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Ting Sun
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Advanced Optoelectronic Technology Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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21
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Emergency presentations in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a clinical challenge. Clinicians need to be vigilant in diagnosing and treating immune-mediated toxicities. In this review, we consider the approach to managing an acutely unwell patient being treated with ICIs presenting as an emergency. RECENT FINDINGS A minority of acutely unwell patients treated with ICIs will have an immune-mediated toxicity. Early recognition and intervention in those with immune-mediated toxicity can reduce the duration and severity of the complications. The use of early immunosuppressive agents along corticosteroid therapy may improve outcomes in patients with life-threatening immune-mediated toxicity. SUMMARY Individualized management of immune-mediated toxicities is a key challenge for emergency oncology services; this has become part of routine cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Cooksley
- Department of Acute Medicine and Critical Care, The Christie, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Adam Klotz
- Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York, New York, USA
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22
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Kostine M, Finckh A, Bingham CO, Visser K, Leipe J, Schulze-Koops H, Choy EH, Benesova K, Radstake TRDJ, Cope AP, Lambotte O, Gottenberg JE, Allenbach Y, Visser M, Rusthoven C, Thomasen L, Jamal S, Marabelle A, Larkin J, Haanen JBAG, Calabrese LH, Mariette X, Schaeverbeke T. EULAR points to consider for the diagnosis and management of rheumatic immune-related adverse events due to cancer immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 80:36-48. [PMID: 32327425 PMCID: PMC7788064 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-217139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Rheumatic and musculoskeletal immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are observed in about 10% of patients with cancer receiving checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs). Given the recent emergence of these events and the lack of guidance for rheumatologists addressing them, a European League Against Rheumatism task force was convened to harmonise expert opinion regarding their identification and management. Methods First, the group formulated research questions for a systematic literature review. Then, based on literature and using a consensus procedure, 4 overarching principles and 10 points to consider were developed. Results The overarching principles defined the role of rheumatologists in the management of irAEs, highlighting the shared decision-making process between patients, oncologists and rheumatologists. The points to consider inform rheumatologists on the wide spectrum of musculoskeletal irAEs, not fulfilling usual classification criteria of rheumatic diseases, and their differential diagnoses. Early referral and facilitated access to rheumatologist are recommended, to document the target organ inflammation. Regarding therapeutic, three treatment escalations were defined: (1) local/systemic glucocorticoids if symptoms are not controlled by symptomatic treatment, then tapered to the lowest efficient dose, (2) conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, in case of inadequate response to glucocorticoids or for steroid sparing and (3) biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, for severe or refractory irAEs. A warning has been made on severe myositis, a life-threatening situation, requiring high dose of glucocorticoids and close monitoring. For patients with pre-existing rheumatic disease, baseline immunosuppressive regimen should be kept at the lowest efficient dose before starting immunotherapies. Conclusion These statements provide guidance on diagnosis and management of rheumatic irAEs and aim to support future international collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Kostine
- Rheumatology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Axel Finckh
- Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Karen Visser
- Rheumatology, Haga Hospital, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Leipe
- Department of Medicine V, Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital Centre, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine IV, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Hendrik Schulze-Koops
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ernest H Choy
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | - Andrew P Cope
- Academic Department of Rheumatology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Olivier Lambotte
- Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Hopital Bicetre, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France
| | | | - Yves Allenbach
- Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Sorbonne Université, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Marianne Visser
- EULAR PARE Patient Research Partners, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cindy Rusthoven
- EULAR PARE Patient Research Partners, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Shahin Jamal
- Rheumatology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - James Larkin
- Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - John B A G Haanen
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | | | - Xavier Mariette
- Rheumatology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Sud - Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,3Université Paris-Sud, Center for Immunology of Viral Infections and Auto-immune Diseases (IMVA), Institut pour la Santé et la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) UMR 1184, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
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23
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Muscle involvement in myasthenia gravis: Expanding the clinical spectrum of Myasthenia-Myositis association from a large cohort of patients. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 19:102498. [PMID: 32062029 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Myastenia-Inflammatory Myopathy (MG-IM) association has been described in less than 50 cases, as isolated reports or in few case series. In most cases, MG and IM onset occur simultaneously even if the overlapping clinical manifestations could lead to delay the diagnosis in the early stage of disease. In these cases, thymic pathology is present in more than 50% of cases. Pathological findings can be consistent of polymyositis (63%), dermatomyositis (25%) or granulomatosis (12%). Accurate clinical manifestations and severity of IM in MG, including muscle specific antibodies (MSA) and muscle MRI, have not been systematically investigated and focal or mild subclinical myositis have not been reported. We observed that focal myositis or asymptomatic CK elevation can also occur in MG. In this review we have also retrospectively re-analyzed the clinical, serological, pathological and muscle imaging data from 13 patients with MG- IM from our cohort of 441 MG patients (2,9%). Clinical onset occurred simultaneously in 10/13 patients, whereas in 2 patients the IM appeared later in MG disease course (range 10-14 years) and conversely in 1 patient MG symptoms occurred later in IM disease course (4 years). Median age at disease onset was 51 year (range 24-73 years) regardless of clinical onset (MG or IM). Median clinical follow-up was 88 months (range 31-237 months). IM was suspected by CK elevation in all patients (ranging 800-3000 UI/L at first detection) and non-fatigable muscle weakness unresponsive to acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. All the patients presented mild to moderate MG symptoms. Three main categories of muscle involvement, sometimes overlapping, were recognizable: distal, proximal and subclinical myositits, leading to three main clinical groups (A,B,C) and two overlapping subgroups (A/B and B/C). Thymus pathology was present in 10/13 patients. Anti-AChR was detected in al all patients associated with anti-Titin and -RyR1 in those patients with thymoma. No MSA, nor MAA antibodies were detected. Muscle biopsy confirmed IM in all patients. In conclusion we redefined the clinical spectrum of muscle involvement in MG-IM association, which represent a continuum among 3 main clinical groups: distal, proximal and subclinical muscle involvement. Minimal muscle involvement and focal myositis could be underestimated among myasthenic patients and early aggressive immunotherapy could be required in focal group.
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24
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Oncolytic Virus Encoding a Master Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Interleukin 12 in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020400. [PMID: 32050597 PMCID: PMC7072539 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are genetically modified or naturally occurring viruses, which preferentially replicate in and kill cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, and induce anti-tumor immunity. OV-induced tumor immunity can be enhanced through viral expression of anti-tumor cytokines such as interleukin 12 (IL-12). IL-12 is a potent anti-cancer agent that promotes T-helper 1 (Th1) differentiation, facilitates T-cell-mediated killing of cancer cells, and inhibits tumor angiogenesis. Despite success in preclinical models, systemic IL-12 therapy is associated with significant toxicity in humans. Therefore, to utilize the therapeutic potential of IL-12 in OV-based cancer therapy, 25 different IL-12 expressing OVs (OV-IL12s) have been genetically engineered for local IL-12 production and tested preclinically in various cancer models. Among OV-IL12s, oncolytic herpes simplex virus encoding IL-12 (OHSV-IL12) is the furthest along in the clinic. IL-12 expression locally in the tumors avoids systemic toxicity while inducing an efficient anti-tumor immunity and synergizes with anti-angiogenic drugs or immunomodulators without compromising safety. Despite the rapidly rising interest, there are no current reviews on OV-IL12s that exploit their potential efficacy and safety to translate into human subjects. In this article, we will discuss safety, tumor-specificity, and anti-tumor immune/anti-angiogenic effects of OHSV-IL12 as mono- and combination-therapies. In addition to OHSV-IL12 viruses, we will also review other IL-12-expressing OVs and their application in cancer therapy.
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25
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Findlay SG, Plummer R, Plummer C. Cancer immunotherapy and its potential cardiac complications. THE BRITISH JOURNAL OF CARDIOLOGY 2020; 27:02. [PMID: 35747420 PMCID: PMC8793930 DOI: 10.5837/bjc.2020.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in immune therapy for cancer have significantly improved the clinical outcomes of patients with advanced cancers, where prognosis has historically been very poor. With these new treatments have come new toxicities and, as the use of immunotherapy increases, we will see an increasing incidence of immune-related adverse events, with patients presenting as an emergency. It is important that all cardiologists, and other physicians who see these patients, are aware of life-threatening immune-related toxicities, in addition to their recommended investigation and treatment. We describe a patient with acute cardiotoxicity secondary to immune therapy to illustrate the complexity of these adverse cardiovascular events, providing recommendations for screening, diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon G Findlay
- Cardio-Oncology Clinical Research Fellow Northern Institute for Cancer Research (NICR), Paul O’Gorman Building, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH
| | | | - Chris Plummer
- Cardiology Consultant, Department of Cardiology Freeman Hospital, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE7 7DN
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26
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Clinical and Advanced MRI Techniques for Detection of Checkpoint Inhibitor Associated Myocarditis. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGING REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12410-019-9521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
With the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), cancer treatment has been revolutionized; however, these agents are associated with immune-related adverse events, including myocarditis, which ranges from mild to fulminant in severity. Currently, there are no established guidelines in diagnosing ICI-associated myocarditis, and the gold standard test for diagnosis of myocarditis in general is invasive endomyocardial biopsy (EMB). Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is a noninvasive test with the advantage of providing structural, functional and tissue characterization information. Additionally, it provides high spatial and temporal resolution without exposure to ionizing radiation, iodinated contrast, or radioactive isotopes.
Recent Findings
With an increasing number of reported cases of ICI associated myocarditis, understanding of the disease process and associated CMR findings is growing. Diagnostic testing with cardiac biomarkers, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram can be nonspecific and EMB can have sampling errors. CMR as a diagnostic tool can provide functional assessment of biventricular ejection fraction, myocardial strain, tissue characterization of myocardial edema and inflammation as well as fibrosis. Furthermore, with advanced parametric mapping techniques, CMR provides even more sensitive and quantitative information about myocardial inflammation and fibrosis, including measurements of extracellular volume.
Summary
ICI-associated myocarditis is a serious immune adverse event, and CMR plays a vital role in establishing its diagnosis, providing prognostic information, and has the potential for use as a tool for screening and serial monitoring in patients exposed to ICIs.
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27
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Daher A, Matsuoka CK, Loghin ME, Penas-Prado M, Tummala S. Neuromuscular Weakness Syndromes from Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Case Series and Literature Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.4103/jipo.jipo_3_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) (anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4, anti-programmed death 1, and anti-programmed death-ligand 1) have transformed the landscape of cancer therapy. However, their increasing use has unleashed immune-related adverse events in various organs, among which neurologic ones, while rare, are increasingly being recognized and remain incompletely characterized. Herein, we report five patients with nonmelanoma cancers who developed weakness after receiving CPIs. The etiology was attributed to radiculoneuritis (one patient), myositis (one patient), Miller Fisher/myasthenia gravis (MG) (one patient), neuropathy/myositis/MG (one patient), and myositis/MG (one patient). Weakness developed after a median of two doses (range: 1–3) and 4 weeks (range: 3–10) from initiation of therapy. Two patients had severe manifestations without improvement while the other three experienced partial improvement despite discontinuation of the CPI (s) and initiation of immunosuppressive therapy. A review of literature identified 62 similar cases. This report highlights the challenges in the diagnosis and management of neurologic adverse events related to the use of CPIs. It also addresses the crucial need for early recognition, proper workup, and better biomarkers to help improve the outcomes of these adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Daher
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Hartford Health Care Medical Group, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT
| | - Carlos Kamiya Matsuoka
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Hartford Health Care Medical Group, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT
- Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Monica Elena Loghin
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Hartford Health Care Medical Group, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT
- Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Marta Penas-Prado
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Hartford Health Care Medical Group, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT
- Department of Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sudhakar Tummala
- Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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28
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Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy and myocarditis: a systematic review of reported cases. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2019; 145:1527-1557. [PMID: 31028541 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-019-02927-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of certain types of cancers has revolutionized cancer therapy. In general, these novel agents are more tolerable and have better safety profiles than conventional chemotherapy agents. Although a low incidence of myocarditis was noted as a side effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical trials, it is being increasingly cited in the literature as their use also increases. METHODS Using a combination of search terms in the PubMed/Medline database and manual searches on Google Scholar and the bibliographies of articles identified, we reviewed all cases reported in the English language citing myocarditis associated with either pembrolizumab, nivolumab, ipilimumab, or any combination of these agents. RESULTS A total of 42 cases were included in the study. Mean age was 65.5 years; 64% were male, 36% were female. One or two doses preceded the onset of myocarditis in 33% and 29% of cases, respectively. Steroids were used as the first-line therapy in 90% of cases. Complete heart block occurred in 36% of cases. Fourteen (33%) deaths were reported, with 64% and 29% of deaths occurring after one or two doses, respectively. CONCLUSION Most cases and fatalities of myocarditis occurred shortly after initiation of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Arrhythmias, particularly complete heart block, appear to be related to the occurrence of more severe and fatal cases. The use of serial electrocardiograms or biomarkers of myocardial injury may be crucial in detecting early stages of the disease process. Further research establishing more specific guidelines is necessary in dealing with this potentially fatal side effect.
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29
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Agrawal N, Khunger A, Vachhani P, Colvin TA, Hattoum A, Spangenthal E, Curtis AB, Dy GK, Ernstoff MS, Puzanov I. Cardiac Toxicity Associated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Case Series and Review of the Literature. Case Rep Oncol 2019; 12:260-276. [PMID: 31011325 PMCID: PMC6465686 DOI: 10.1159/000498985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized the treatment of patients with advanced stage cancers. However, immune-related adverse events are frequently observed. Cardiac toxicity from ICI therapy can range from asymptomatic troponin-I elevations to conduction abnormalities of the heart and even fulminant myocarditis. Although rare, myocarditis is a potentially fatal adverse effect of ICI therapy. We present a series of five cases of ICI-related cardio-toxicity diagnosed and managed at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center along with a review of published case reports in the literature. Our series highlights the importance of high clinical suspicion, early diagnosis of myocarditis, and prompt initiation of immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Agrawal
- Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Arjun Khunger
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Pankit Vachhani
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Teresa A Colvin
- Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Alexander Hattoum
- Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Edward Spangenthal
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Anne B Curtis
- Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Grace K Dy
- Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Marc S Ernstoff
- Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Igor Puzanov
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
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