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Silverstein J, Goyal N, Tsai KK. For the Long Haul: Management of Long-Term Survivors after Melanoma Systemic Therapy. Curr Oncol Rep 2024; 26:804-817. [PMID: 38780676 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-024-01541-6] [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] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarizes the latest advancements in survivorship care for patients with advanced melanoma who received systemic therapy and emphasizes the areas where more research is needed. RECENT FINDINGS Over the last decade there have been remarkable advances in the treatment of advanced and metastatic melanoma. Due to these novel treatments, including several immune checkpoint inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, there are and will continue to be increasing numbers of long-term melanoma survivors who have been treated with systemic therapy. These patients will navigate new challenges are they are essentially among the first long term survivors after these novel therapies. Survivorship care focuses on improving the health-related quality of life of patients including the physical, emotional, social and functional effects of cancer that begin at diagnosis and continue through the end of life. Survivorship also includes screening for cancer recurrence and second cancers. As the number of melanoma survivors who received systemic therapy continues to grow, the survivorship care plan will become increasingly important for optimal care of patients even after their cancer treatments. Understanding the many domains of survivorship care for this group of patients is imperative for their care now and to identify unmet needs for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordyn Silverstein
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Neha Goyal
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katy K Tsai
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
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2
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Yu H, Wang X, Pan Y, Li H. Myasthenia gravis due to anti-PD-1 treatment for an advanced colon cancer patient: a case report and literature review. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12494-y. [PMID: 38864881 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12494-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
With the advancement of cancer treatment technologies, immunotherapy has begun to be widely utilized. Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with metastasis being a frequent occurrence in late-stage patients. Hence, immunotherapy, as an emerging and potentially effective treatment modality, merits exploration to enhance patient survival rates and clinical benefits. However, various immune-related adverse events cannot be entirely avoided. Myasthenia gravis induced by immunotherapy serves as a rare but potentially lethal adverse event, and it has been increasingly reported. Understanding the mechanisms of irAEs can aid in controlling the side effects induced by treatment. Here, we reported a case of myasthenia gravis occurring after anti-PD-1 therapy for late-stage colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hansong Yu
- General Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- General Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Yuetong Pan
- General Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- General Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China.
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3
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Hou S, Song D, Zang Y, Hao R, Li L, Zhu J. Prognostic relevance of platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in gastric cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1367990. [PMID: 38912061 PMCID: PMC11190700 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1367990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives The prognostic relevance of the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in gastric cancer (GC) patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the prognostic impact of PLR in this specific patient cohort. Methods We searched the PubMed, Cochrane Library, CNKI, and EMBASE databases, including literature published up to September 2023, to investigate the prognostic implications of PLR in patients with gastric cancer undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Outcome measures encompassed overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rates (DCR). Results Nine studies from seven articles comprising 948 eligible patients were selected. The results revealed a significant correlation between elevated PLR and poorer OS and progression-free survival (PFS) (OS: HR 1.67, 95% CI 1.39-2.00, p < 0.001; PFS: HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.29-1.76, p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses were performed to validate the robustness of the results. Moreover, a meta-analysis of four studies investigating the correlation between the PLR in gastric cancer (GC) patients and the objective response rate/disease control rate (ORR/DCR), showed no significant association between the PLR and ORR/DCR (ORR: RR = 1.01, p = 0.960; DCR: RR = 0.96, p = 0.319). Conclusions This meta-analysis indicates that elevated PLR in GC patients undergoing ICI treatment is significantly linked to worse OS and PFS. Therefore, PLR can serve as a prognostic indicator of post-treatment outcomes in patients with GC receiving ICIs. Further prospective studies are required to assess the reliability of these findings. Systematic review registration https://inplasy.com/, identifier INPLASY2023120103.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufu Hou
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Tumor, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Dandan Song
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Province Third Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Yelei Zang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Tumor, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Ruiqi Hao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Tumor, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Linchuan Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Tumor, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jiankang Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Tumor, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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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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5
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Hirsch S, Pöhler GH, Seeliger B, Prasse A, Witte T, Thiele T. Treatment strategies in MDA5-positive clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis: a single-center retrospective analysis. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:37. [PMID: 38367089 PMCID: PMC10874312 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01300-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5) antibody positive amyopathic dermatomyositis (DM) is a rare inflammatory disease. So far, there is no official treatment guideline in MDA5 amyopathic dermatomyositis, but early and aggressive immunosuppressive combination treatment can induce a stable remission. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of eight patients (male n = 5) that were diagnosed with MDA5-positive amyopathic DM. Patient data comprised demographics, CT-guided diagnosis of pulmonary involvement, pulmonary function testing including forced vital capacity (FVC) and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) data on baseline and mean long-term follow-up of 51 months (24-92 months) to evaluate treatment strategies. Depending on severity of organ involvement treatments were individualized including cyclophosphamide, immunoglobulins and plasmapheresis. Simultaneously, oral treatment with tacrolimus was commenced in four of the eight patients. Most patients received remission maintenance therapy with a combination of tacrolimus, rituximab and low dose steroids. In all patients, improvement in FVC was recorded and five patients achieved an improvement in DLCO. An improvement in the CT imaging morphological findings was observed in four patients. Awareness for the entirety of all clinical and disease-related findings of amyopathic DM is crucial, and remission maintenance is often achieved with a combination of tacrolimus and rituximab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Hirsch
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gesa Helen Pöhler
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Seeliger
- Department of Pneumology and Infectious Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Antje Prasse
- Department of Pneumology and Infectious Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Torsten Witte
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thea Thiele
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
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Argentiero A, Delvecchio A, Fasano R, Andriano A, Caradonna IC, Memeo R, Desantis V. The Complexity of the Tumor Microenvironment in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Emerging Therapeutic Developments. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7469. [PMID: 38068521 PMCID: PMC10706931 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12237469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
This review explores various aspects of the HCC TME, including both cellular and non-cellular components, to elucidate their roles in tumor development and progression. Specifically, it highlights the significance of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and their contributions to tumor progression, angiogenesis, immune suppression, and therapeutic resistance. Moreover, this review emphasizes the role of immune cells, such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and regulatory T-cells (Tregs), in shaping the immunosuppressive microenvironment that promotes tumor growth and immune evasion. Furthermore, we also focused only on the non-cellular components of the HCC TME, including the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the role of hypoxia-induced angiogenesis. Alterations in the composition of ECM and stiffness have been implicated in tumor invasion and metastasis, while hypoxia-driven angiogenesis promotes tumor growth and metastatic spread. The molecular mechanisms underlying these processes, including the activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling, are also discussed. In addition to elucidating the complex TME of HCC, this review focuses on emerging therapeutic strategies that target the TME. It highlights the potential of second-line treatments, such as regorafenib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab, in improving overall survival for advanced HCC patients who have progressed on or were intolerant to first-line therapy. Furthermore, this review explores the implications of the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging and classification system in guiding HCC management decisions. The BCLC system, which incorporates tumor stage, liver function, and performance status, provides a framework for treatment stratification and prognosis prediction in HCC patients. The insights gained from this review contribute to the development of novel therapeutic interventions and personalized treatment approaches for HCC patients, ultimately improving clinical outcomes in this challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonella Delvecchio
- Unit of Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, “F. Miulli” General Hospital, 70021 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Andriano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ingrid Catalina Caradonna
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Riccardo Memeo
- Unit of Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, “F. Miulli” General Hospital, 70021 Bari, Italy
| | - Vanessa Desantis
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
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7
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Opinc-Rosiak AH, Makowska JS. Environmental exposures as risk factors for idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. J Autoimmun 2023; 140:103095. [PMID: 37797402 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.103095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are a heterogeneous group of rare autoimmune diseases, with increasing incidence rates observed in the recent years. The pathogenesis of IIM remains not fully understood, and the interaction of genetic and environmental factors is suspected. It is unclear whether the observed upward trend in the IIM incidence is solely due to improved access to effective diagnostics or perhaps due to increased exposure to external risk factors. The PUBMED database was thoroughly searched for articles describing environmental exposures potentially triggering the onset of IIM. The article summarizes the current knowledge available on this subject, taking into account various environmental factors, including among others UV radiation, infectious agents with SARS-CoV-2, inhaled particles, or iatrogenic effects. Limitations and unmet needs requiring further studies were highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joanna S Makowska
- Department of Rheumatology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeromskiego 113, 90-549, Lodz, Poland.
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8
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Yang K, Li J, Sun Z, Bai C, Zhao L. Effect of age on the risk of immune-related adverse events in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:3907-3918. [PMID: 37016065 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01055-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Identifying patients at increased risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) facilitates safe application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This retrospective study aimed to determine the effect of age on the risk of irAEs in patients receiving ICIs and to identify potential mechanisms underlying age-related irAE risk differences. We analyzed reports of FDA Adverse Event Reporting System from July 1, 2014, to September 30, 2021. The information component ratio (ICΔ) was used to compare the irAE risk between older adults (> 65 years) and younger adults (25-65 years), of which the 95% confidential interval lower limit (ICΔ025) exceeding zero indicated significantly increased risk. We found that older adults had a significantly higher overall irAE risk than younger adults (ICΔ025 0.38), which was observed in almost all organ systems. We further analyzed the correlation between age-related irAE risks and age-related transcriptional changes to identify potential genes and pathways underlying age-related irAE risk differences. We found that genes significantly correlated with ICΔ were enriched in processes including extracellular matrix organization, regulation of myeloid leukocyte mediated immunity, and regulation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) cascade. In addition, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis confirmed that genes involved in collagen-containing extracellular matrix and JNK cascade were significantly upregulated in myeloid cells from ICI-associated colitis tissues compared with ICI-treated colon tissues without colitis. In conclusion, older adults receiving ICIs have higher irAE risks than younger adults. Upregulation of genes involved in JNK cascade and collagen-containing extracellular matrix in myeloid cells may contribute to increased irAE risks in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaili Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuai Fu Yuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100032, China
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuai Fu Yuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100032, China
| | - Chunmei Bai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuai Fu Yuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100032, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuai Fu Yuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100032, China.
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9
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Islam MM. Pembrolizumab-induced diffuse myositis in a patient of metastatic colon cancer: a case report. Clin Med (Lond) 2023; 23:15. [PMID: 38182229 PMCID: PMC11046630 DOI: 10.7861/clinmed.23-6-s15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
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10
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Raschi E, Rossi S, De Giglio A, Fusaroli M, Burgazzi F, Rinaldi R, Potena L. Cardiovascular Toxicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Guide for Clinicians. Drug Saf 2023; 46:819-833. [PMID: 37341925 PMCID: PMC10442274 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-023-01320-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment and care of patients with cancer owing to unique features, including the occurrence of the so-called immune-related adverse events (irAEs). A multidisciplinary team, possibly including a cardio-oncology specialist, is warranted to achieve a favorable patient outcome. Cardiovascular toxicity, especially myocarditis, emerged as a life-threatening irAE in the real-word setting, and the European Society of Cardiology has recently published the first guideline on cardio-oncology to increase awareness and promote a standardized approach to tackle this complex multimodal issue, including diagnostic challenges, assessment, treatment, and surveillance of patients with cancer receiving ICIs. In this article, through a question & answer format made up of case vignettes, we offer a clinically oriented overview on the latest advancements of ICI-related cardiovascular toxicity, focusing on myocarditis and associated irAEs (myositis and myasthenia gravis within the so-called overlap syndrome), with the purpose of assisting clinicians and healthcare professionals in daily clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel Raschi
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Simone Rossi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giglio
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Fusaroli
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Flavio Burgazzi
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rita Rinaldi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luciano Potena
- Unit of Heart Failure and Transplantation, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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11
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McCormack SM, Hamad A. Pembrolizumab-Induced Myasthenia Gravis and Peripheral Neuropathy: A Case Series. Cureus 2023; 15:e44799. [PMID: 37809208 PMCID: PMC10558814 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pembrolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptor on T-cells, thereby enhancing the antitumor immune response. Pembrolizumab has been shown to improve survival in various cancers, but it can also cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which can affect any organ system. We report two cases of rare but serious irAEs caused by pembrolizumab: myasthenia gravis (MG) and peripheral neuropathy. Both patients presented with neuromuscular symptoms after receiving pembrolizumab for their advanced cancers. They were diagnosed with MG and peripheral neuropathy based on their clinical features, laboratory tests, and unremarkable imaging. Treatment involved discontinuing pembrolizumab and initiating immunosuppressive and supportive therapies. Both patients experienced improvement in their symptoms and quality of life once pembrolizumab was permanently discontinued and supportive therapies were in place. These cases highlight the importance of recognizing and managing rare irAEs of pembrolizumab, such as MG and peripheral neuropathy. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes and reduce morbidity. Furthermore, these cases emphasize the need for continued post-marketing surveillance to accurately assess the risk of less frequent adverse drug reactions seen in patients on pembrolizumab. Knowledge of these adverse reactions is important when discussing the pros and cons of this novel therapy with patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amar Hamad
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Affiliated Oncologists, Chicago Ridge, USA
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12
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Tang L, Huang Z, Mei H, Hu Y. Immunotherapy in hematologic malignancies: achievements, challenges and future prospects. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:306. [PMID: 37591844 PMCID: PMC10435569 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune-cell origin of hematologic malignancies provides a unique avenue for the understanding of both the mechanisms of immune responsiveness and immune escape, which has accelerated the progress of immunotherapy. Several categories of immunotherapies have been developed and are being further evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of blood cancers, including stem cell transplantation, immune checkpoint inhibitors, antigen-targeted antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, tumor vaccines, and adoptive cell therapies. These immunotherapies have shown the potential to induce long-term remission in refractory or relapsed patients and have led to a paradigm shift in cancer treatment with great clinical success. Different immunotherapeutic approaches have their advantages but also shortcomings that need to be addressed. To provide clinicians with timely information on these revolutionary therapeutic approaches, the comprehensive review provides historical perspectives on the applications and clinical considerations of the immunotherapy. Here, we first outline the recent advances that have been made in the understanding of the various categories of immunotherapies in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. We further discuss the specific mechanisms of action, summarize the clinical trials and outcomes of immunotherapies in hematologic malignancies, as well as the adverse effects and toxicity management and then provide novel insights into challenges and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Tang
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Medical Center of Cell Therapy for Neoplastic Disease, 430022, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhongpei Huang
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Medical Center of Cell Therapy for Neoplastic Disease, 430022, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Heng Mei
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Medical Center of Cell Therapy for Neoplastic Disease, 430022, Wuhan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, 430022, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yu Hu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Medical Center of Cell Therapy for Neoplastic Disease, 430022, Wuhan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, 430022, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430022, Wuhan, China.
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13
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Solimando AG, Krebs M, Desantis V, Marziliano D, Caradonna IC, Morizio A, Argentiero A, Shahini E, Bittrich M. Breaking through Multiple Myeloma: A Paradigm for a Comprehensive Tumor Ecosystem Targeting. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2087. [PMID: 37509726 PMCID: PMC10377041 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11072087] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancerous condition characterized by the proliferation of plasma cells within the hematopoietic marrow, resulting in multiple osteolytic lesions. MM patients typically experience bone pain, kidney damage, fatigue due to anemia, and infections. Historically, MM was an incurable disease with a life expectancy of around three years after diagnosis. However, over the past two decades, the development of novel therapeutics has significantly improved patient outcomes, including response to treatment, remission duration, quality of life, and overall survival. These advancements include thalidomide and its derivatives, lenalidomide and pomalidomide, which exhibit diverse mechanisms of action against the plasma cell clone. Additionally, proteasome inhibitors such as bortezomib, ixazomib, and carfilzomib disrupt protein degradation, proving specifically toxic to cancerous plasma cells. Recent advancements also involve monoclonal antibodies targeting surface antigens, such as elotuzumab (anti-CS1) and daratumumab (anti-CD38), bispecific t-cell engagers such as teclistamab (anti-BCMA/CD3) and Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T)-based strategies, with a growing focus on drugs that exhibit increasingly targeted action against neoplastic plasma cells and relevant effects on the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio G Solimando
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology "G. Baccelli", Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Markus Krebs
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Desantis
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Donatello Marziliano
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology "G. Baccelli", Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ingrid Catalina Caradonna
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Morizio
- Orthopedics and Traumatology Unit ASL BA-Ospedale della Murgia "Fabio Perinei", 70022 Altamura, Italy
| | | | - Endrit Shahini
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis", 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy
| | - Max Bittrich
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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Terrin M, Migliorisi G, Dal Buono A, Gabbiadini R, Mastrorocco E, Quadarella A, Repici A, Santoro A, Armuzzi A. Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Colitis: From Pathogenesis to Management. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11504. [PMID: 37511260 PMCID: PMC10380448 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411504] [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: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of immunotherapy, specifically of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), for the treatment of solid tumors has deeply transformed therapeutic algorithms in medical oncology. Approximately one-third of patients treated with ICIs may de velop immune-related adverse events, and the gastrointestinal tract is often affected by different grades of mucosal inflammation. Checkpoint inhibitors colitis (CIC) presents with watery or bloody diarrhea and, in the case of severe symptoms, requires ICIs discontinuation. The pathogenesis of CIC is multifactorial and still partially unknown: anti-tumor activity that collaterally effects the colonic tissue and the upregulation of specific systemic inflammatory pathways (i.e., CD8+ cytotoxic and CD4+ T lymphocytes) are mainly involved. Many questions remain regarding treatment timing and options, and biological treatment, especially with anti-TNF alpha, can be offered to these patients with the aim of rapidly resuming oncological therapies. CIC shares similar pathogenesis and aspects with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the use of ICI in IBD patients is under evaluation. This review aims to summarize the pathogenetic mechanism underlying CIC and to discuss the current evidenced-based management options, including the role of biological therapy, emphasizing the relevant clinical impact on CIC and the need for prompt recognition and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Terrin
- IBD Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (G.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Migliorisi
- IBD Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (G.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Dal Buono
- IBD Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Roberto Gabbiadini
- IBD Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Mastrorocco
- IBD Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (G.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Quadarella
- IBD Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (G.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Repici
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Armando Santoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Medical Oncology and Haematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Armuzzi
- IBD Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (G.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
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15
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Solimando AG, Bittrich M, Shahini E, Albanese F, Fritz G, Krebs M. Determinants of COVID-19 Disease Severity-Lessons from Primary and Secondary Immune Disorders including Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108746. [PMID: 37240091 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108746] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with primary and secondary immune disorders-including patients suffering from cancer-were generally regarded as a high-risk population in terms of COVID-19 disease severity and mortality. By now, scientific evidence indicates that there is substantial heterogeneity regarding the vulnerability towards COVID-19 in patients with immune disorders. In this review, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge about the effect of coexistent immune disorders on COVID-19 disease severity and vaccination response. In this context, we also regarded cancer as a secondary immune disorder. While patients with hematological malignancies displayed lower seroconversion rates after vaccination in some studies, a majority of cancer patients' risk factors for severe COVID-19 disease were either inherent (such as metastatic or progressive disease) or comparable to the general population (age, male gender and comorbidities such as kidney or liver disease). A deeper understanding is needed to better define patient subgroups at a higher risk for severe COVID-19 disease courses. At the same time, immune disorders as functional disease models offer further insights into the role of specific immune cells and cytokines when orchestrating the immune response towards SARS-CoV-2 infection. Longitudinal serological studies are urgently needed to determine the extent and the duration of SARS-CoV-2 immunity in the general population, as well as immune-compromised and oncological patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio G Solimando
- Guido Baccelli Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-(DiMePRe-J), Aldo Moro Bari University, 70100 Bari, Italy
| | - Max Bittrich
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Endrit Shahini
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology S. De Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy
| | - Federica Albanese
- Guido Baccelli Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-(DiMePRe-J), Aldo Moro Bari University, 70100 Bari, Italy
| | - Georg Fritz
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy at the Immanuel Klinikum Bernau, Heart Center Brandenburg, 16321 Bernau, Germany
| | - Markus Krebs
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Urology and Paediatric Urology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Immune check point inhibitors (ICIs) are a unique class of cancer treatments that harness the body's innate antitumor response. Although these medications have transformed oncology care, they also lead to generalized immune activation that can result in toxicities across a spectrum of organ systems called immune-related adverse events. This article reviews the most common rheumatologic immune-related adverse events and their management. RECENT FINDINGS Inflammatory arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatic, sicca symptoms, systemic sclerosis, myositis, and vasculitis have all been reported as ICI adverse events. Treatment includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, traditional DMARDs, and biologics. SUMMARY Rheumatologists have an important role in the management of patients with rheumatologic immune-related adverse events. Working with our oncology colleagues, we can help manage rheumatologic immune-related adverse events while optimally preserving ICI's antitumor effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Defoe
- Division of Rheumatic Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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17
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Peripheral nervous system adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. J Neurol 2023; 270:2975-2986. [PMID: 36800019 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11625-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) represent an effective cancer immunotherapy yet are associated with immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The aim of this study was to characterize irAEs involving the peripheral nervous system (PNS-irAEs) in a real-world cohort of ICI-treated patients. METHODS Cancer patients treated with ICIs between January 2014 and March 2022 were included. Patients with PNS-irAEs were identified and divided into two groups: (1) cranial/peripheral neuropathies and (2) myasthenia gravis (MG) and/or myositis. Clinical characteristics and outcomes, measured with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), were compared among the two groups. RESULTS Among 920 ICI-treated patients, 20 patients (2.17%) developed a PNS-irAEs. The median latency from ICI exposure was 8.8 weeks and the median time from onset to clinical nadir was 3.5 weeks. Eleven patients developed a neuropathy: polyneuropathy (n = 4), cranial neuropathy (n = 3), small-fiber neuropathy (n = 3), brachial plexopathy (n = 1). Nine patients presented MG and/or myositis: concomitant MG and myositis (n = 6), isolated myositis (n = 2), exacerbation of MG (n = 1). Immunosuppressive treatment and/or ICI withdrawal determined a significant clinical improvement, expressed by a mRS reduction, in the neuropathy group (p = 0.004), but not in the MG/myositis group (p = 0.11). Overall, death due to irAEs occurred in four patients (20%), all with MG/myositis. Compared to patients with neuropathies, those with MG/myositis had a shorter latency onset (p = 0.036), developed more frequently concomitant non-neurologic irAEs (p = 0.028) and showed a higher mortality rate (p = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS In our large cohort of ICI-treated patients, 2.17% developed PNS-irAEs. Compared to ir-neuropathies, ir-MG/myositis tend to occur earlier from ICI exposure and present a worse response to treatment and a higher mortality.
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18
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Neurology of cancer immunotherapy. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:137-148. [PMID: 36112276 PMCID: PMC9816208 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06297-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy is nowadays considered a mainstay of cancer treatment, dramatically affecting the disease-free survival rate in several aggressive malignancies. Unfortunately, cancer immunotherapy can also trigger life-threatening autoimmune neurological complications named "neurological adverse effects" (NAEs). NAEs can affect both the central nervous system (CNS), as in ipilimumab-related aseptic meningitis, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), as in nivolumab-induced myasthenia gravis. CURRENT EVIDENCE The incidence of NAEs is highly variable, ranging from 2 to 4% using checkpoint inhibitors to 50% using blinatumomab. Looking at these numbers, it appears clear that neurologists will soon be called more and more frequently to decide upon the best therapeutic strategy for a patient receiving immunotherapy and experiencing a NAE. Most of them can be treated or reverted withholding the offending drug and adding IVIg, plasmapheresis, or steroids to the therapy. Sometimes, however, for oncological reasons, immunotherapy cannot be stopped so the neurologist needs to know what countermeasures have proven most effective. Moreover, patients with a pre-existing autoimmune neurological disease (AID), such as myasthenia gravis or multiple sclerosis, might need immunotherapy during their life, risking a severe worsening of their symptoms. In that setting, the neurologist needs to properly counsel patients about the risk of a therapy-related relapse. CONCLUSION In this article, we describe the most frequently reported NAEs and aim to give neurologists a practical overview on how to deal with them.
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Reid P, Cappelli LC. Treatment of rheumatic adverse events of cancer immunotherapy. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2022; 36:101805. [PMID: 36539321 PMCID: PMC10198805 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2022.101805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), used to treat many advanced cancers, activate the immune system to elicit an antitumor response. ICIs can also cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs) when nontumor tissues are affected by excess inflammation and autoimmunity. Rheumatic irAEs include inflammatory arthritis, myositis, sicca syndrome, polymyalgia rheumatica, and several other rare phenotypes. Treating rheumatic irAEs requires balancing the desire to decrease off-target inflammation while not negatively impacting the antitumor immune response. In this review, treatment recommendations for rheumatic irAEs have been discussed. Pathogenesis of rheumatic irAEs has been briefly reviewed. Knowledge about the effects of corticosteroids and steroid-sparing agents on tumor responses has been detailed to give context for treatment decisions. Recommendations ultimately depend not only on the clinical presentation and severity of the irAE but also on the goals of cancer treatment. Finally, how to safely use ICI therapy in patients with preexisting autoimmune diseases is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankti Reid
- University of Chicago, Department of Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, 5841 South Maryland Ave. MC 0930, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Laura C Cappelli
- Johns Hopkins University, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, 5501 Hopkins Bayview Circle, Suite 1B1, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
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20
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Deharo F, Carvelli J, Cautela J, Garcia M, Sarles C, Maues de Paula A, Bourenne J, Gainnier M, Bichon A. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Myositis/Myocarditis with Myasthenia Gravis-like Misleading Presentation: A Case Series in Intensive Care Unit. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11195611. [PMID: 36233479 PMCID: PMC9573481 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a major breakthrough in cancer treatment. Their increasingly frequent use leads to an uprising incidence of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Among those, myocarditis is the most reported fatal cardiovascular irAE, frequently associated with ICI-related myositis. Case series: Here, we report three cases of ICI-induced myocarditis/myositis with an extremely severe myasthenia gravis-like (MG-like) presentation, highlighting the main challenges in irAEs management. These patients were over 60 years old and presented an ongoing melanoma, either locally advanced or metastatic, treated with ICI combinations. Shortly after the first or second ICI infusion, they were admitted in an intensive care unit (ICU) for grade 3 ICI-induced MG-like symptoms leading to acute respiratory failure (ARF) requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). The initial misdiagnosis was later corrected to severe ICI-induced seronegative myocarditis/myositis upon biological results and histopathology from muscular/endomyocardial biopsies. All of them received urgent high-dose corticosteroids pulses. The oldest patient died prematurely, but the two others received targeted therapies leading to complete recovery for one of them. Discussion: These cases highlight the four main challenges of irAEs, encompassing the lack of knowledge among physicians, the risk of misdiagnosis due to numerous and non-specific symptoms, the frequent overlapping forms of irAEs, and the extremely rare MG-like misleading presentation of myocarditis/myositis. The exact pathophysiology of irAEs remains unclear, although a major involvement of the lymphoid compartment (specifically T lymphocytes) was evidenced. Therapeutic management is based on urgent high-dose corticosteroids. For the severest forms of irAEs, case-by-case targeted immunosuppressive therapies should be urgently administered upon multidisciplinary meetings. Conclusion: These cases highlight the lack of knowledge of irAEs among physicians, aggravated by misleading overlapping forms, requiring specific management in trained units and multidisciplinary care. Severe MG-like presentation of irAEs constitutes an absolute therapeutic emergency with high-dose corticosteroids and targeted immunosuppressive therapy.
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21
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Longinow J, Zmaili M, Skoza W, Kondoleon N, Marquardt R, Calabrese C, Funchain P, Moudgil R. Immune checkpoint inhibitor induced myocarditis, myasthenia gravis, and myositis: A single-center case series. Cancer Med 2022; 12:2281-2289. [PMID: 36128926 PMCID: PMC9939107 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors can result in overlap syndrome comprised of myasthenia gravis, myositis and myocarditis. However, the mortality predictors have not been clearly delineated. METHODS We examined the characteristics of 11 patients diagnosed with overlap syndrome at Cleveland Clinic. All the available clinical, diagnostic, biochemical and disease specific factors were examined. Clinical predictors of increased mortality were using student t-test for parametric data and Wilcoxon-signed rank testing for nonparametric data. RESULTS Seven patients out of eleven patients were alive during the analysis. Our study did confirm that troponins were indicator of early demise. However, study showed that elevated creatinine, BUN, and decreased hemoglobin were also observed in patients who met early demise. Unlike previously published studies, elevated NT Pro-BNP and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction were not a seen in this study. However, there were higher incidence of electrical abnormalities in deceased patients when compared to alive. CONCLUSION Our study is first to examine various clinical parameters of overlap syndrome that might be predictive of mortality. This study confirms troponin as possible predictor and adds elevated creatinine, BUN and reduced hemoglobin as possible early biomarkers in deceased patients. The analysis showed that reduced LVEF was not a seen in deceased patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Longinow
- Department of Internal MedicineCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Mohammad Zmaili
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart and Vascular InstituteCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Warren Skoza
- Department of Internal MedicineCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Nicholas Kondoleon
- Department of Internal MedicineCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Robert Marquardt
- Department of Internal MedicineCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA,Division of Neuromuscular CenterCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Cassandra Calabrese
- Department of Internal MedicineCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA,Section of Rheumatologic and Immunologic DiseaseCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Pauline Funchain
- Department of Internal MedicineCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA,Taussig Cancer Institute and Case Comprehensive Cancer CenterCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Rohit Moudgil
- Department of Internal MedicineCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA,Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart and Vascular InstituteCleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandOhioUSA
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22
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Immune-Related Uncommon Adverse Events in Patients with Cancer Treated with Immunotherapy. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12092091. [PMID: 36140493 PMCID: PMC9498261 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12092091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has dramatically changed the therapeutic landscape of oncology, and has become standard of care in multiple cancer types in front or late lines of therapy, with some longstanding responses and outstanding results. Notwithstanding, its use has brought a totally unique spectrum of adverse events, characterized by a myriad of diverse manifestations affecting nearly every organ and system of the body, including the endocrine, nervous, cardiac, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Uncommon adverse events, defined as those occurring in less than 1% of patients, comprise an even more heterogeneous group of diseases that are being seen more recurrently as the use of immune check-point inhibitors increases and indications spread in different tumor types and stages. Here, we comprehensively review some uncommon, but exceedingly important, immune-related adverse events, with special emphasis in the clinical approach and diagnostic workup, aiming to reunite the evidence published previously, allowing an increase in awareness and knowledge from all specialists implicated in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of cancer patients treated with immunotherapy.
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Merve A, Schneider U, Kara E, Papadopoulou C, Stenzel W. Muscle biopsy in myositis: What the rheumatologist needs to know. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2022; 36:101763. [PMID: 35773136 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2022.101763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The appropriate analysis of skeletal muscle tissues is a key element in many diagnostic procedures and can deliver valuable information about the organ that is affected. Although arguably the frequency of muscle biopsy may be declining in certain domains where genetic analysis is now the first line of diagnostic evaluation, it still has an important role in assessment of patients with neuromuscular disorders such as congenital myopathies, muscular dystrophies, metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Here, we have comprehensively discussed the aspects of a modern and fruitful approach to muscle biopsy histopathological studies in rheumatological disorders. We have focussed on the neuromuscular involvement in myositis and its differential diagnoses in both adult and paediatric settings. We have also covered the clinical indications for the biopsy, technical aspects and practical points relevant for the rheumatologists. Finally, we have critically discussed the current and future opportunities that a muscle biopsy may offer and its limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashirwad Merve
- Department of Neuropathology, UCL Institute of Neurology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals, London, UK; Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Udo Schneider
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Rheumatology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Eleanna Kara
- Department of Neuropathology, UCL Institute of Neurology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | | | - Werner Stenzel
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Neurology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
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Neurological Manifestations of Myocarditis. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2022; 22:363-374. [PMID: 35588043 PMCID: PMC9117837 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-022-01203-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The present review discusses the neurological complications associated with myocarditis of different etiologies. RECENT FINDINGS Myocarditis can be idiopathic or caused by different conditions, including toxins, infections, or inflammatory diseases. Clinical findings are variable and range from mild self-limited shortness of breath or chest pain to hemodynamic instability which may result in cardiogenic shock and death. Several neurologic manifestations can be seen in association with myocarditis. Tissue remodeling, fibrosis, and myocyte dysfunction can result in heart failure and arrhythmias leading to intracardiac thrombus formation and cardioembolism. In addition, peripheral neuropathies, status epilepticus, or myasthenia gravis have been reported in association with specific types of myocarditis. Multiple studies suggest the increasing risk of neurologic complications in patients with myocarditis. Neurologists should maintain a high suspicion of myocarditis in cases presenting with both cardiovascular and neurological dysfunction without a clear etiology.
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25
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Albarrán V, Chamorro J, Rosero DI, Saavedra C, Soria A, Carrato A, Gajate P. Neurologic Toxicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Review of Literature. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:774170. [PMID: 35237154 PMCID: PMC8882914 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.774170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have entailed a change of paradigm in the management of multiple malignant diseases and are acquiring a key role in an increasing number of clinical sceneries. However, since their mechanism of action is not limited to the tumor microenvironment, their systemic activity may lead to a wide spectrum of immune-related side effects. Although neurological adverse events are much less frequent than gastrointestinal, hepatic, or lung toxicity, with an incidence of <5%, their potential severity and consequent interruptions to cancer treatment make them of particular importance. Despite them mainly implying peripheral neuropathies, immunotherapy has also been associated with an increased risk of encephalitis and paraneoplastic disorders affecting the central nervous system, often appearing in a clinical context where the appropriate diagnosis and early management of neuropsychiatric symptoms can be challenging. Although the pathogenesis of these complications is not fully understood yet, the blockade of tumoral inhibitory signals, and therefore the elicitation of cytotoxic T-cell-mediated response, seems to play a decisive role. The aim of this review was to summarize the current knowledge about the pathogenic mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic recommendations regarding the main forms of neurotoxicity related to checkpoint inhibitors.
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Gutschmidt K, Schoser B. Erworbene Myopathien und ihre neuen Therapien. DIE NEUROLOGIE & PSYCHIATRIE 2022; 23. [PMCID: PMC9713102 DOI: 10.1007/s15202-022-5546-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Gutschmidt
- Friedrich-Baur-Institut, Neurologische Klinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Ziemssenstr. 1a, 80336 München, Germany
| | - Benedikt Schoser
- Klinikum der Universität München, Friedrich Baur-Institut / Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Ziemssenstraße 1a, 80336 München, Germany
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Živković SA, Al-Lahham T. Neurologic Complications of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Neurology 2022. [DOI: 10.17925/usn.2022.18.1.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical use of cancer immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors has transformed the management of cancer and added another effective treatment option for different types of malignancies. The blockade of immune checkpoint pathways triggers an enhanced immune response leading to cancer regression but may also lead to autoimmune toxicities or immune-related adverse events, which may involve skin, endocrine, respiratory, gastrointestinal or neurologic manifestations. Clinically relevant neurologic complications involving the central and/or peripheral nervous system affect up to 1% of patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors and may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Common neurologic complications include aseptic meningitis and encephalitis, hypophysitis, myasthenia, myositis and neuropathies. Neurologic immune-related adverse events after immune checkpoint inhibition should be distinguished from cancer progression or other complications of cancer therapy (e.g. infections). The treatment of neurologic complications may include holding or withdrawing cancer immunotherapy, anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive therapies with corticosteroids and steroid-sparing agents, immunomodulation with intravenous immune globulin or plasmapheresis and symptomatic treatment (e.g. antiepileptic medications, pain medications).
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Glaubitz S, Zeng R, Rakocevic G, Schmidt J. Update on Myositis Therapy: from Today's Standards to Tomorrow's Possibilities. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 28:863-880. [PMID: 34781868 DOI: 10.2174/1381612827666211115165353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory myopathies, in short, myositis, are heterogeneous disorders that are characterized by inflammation of skeletal muscle and weakness of arms and legs. Research over the past few years has led to a new understanding regarding the pathogenesis of myositis. The new insights include different pathways of the innate and adaptive immune response during the pathogenesis of myositis. The importance of non-inflammatory mechanisms such as cell stress and impaired autophagy has been recently described. New target-specific drugs for myositis have been developed and are currently being tested in clinical trials. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of action of pharmacological standards in myositis and provide an outlook of future treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Glaubitz
- Department of Neurology, Muscle Immunobiology Group, Neuromuscular Center, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen. Germany
| | - Rachel Zeng
- Department of Neurology, Muscle Immunobiology Group, Neuromuscular Center, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen. Germany
| | - Goran Rakocevic
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, University of Virginia, Charlottesville. United States
| | - Jens Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, Muscle Immunobiology Group, Neuromuscular Center, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen. Germany
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Deng C, Yang M, Jiang H, Wang R, Yang Z, Sun H, Cui H. Immune-Related Multiple-Organs Injuries Following ICI Treatment With Tislelizumab in an Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patient: A Case Report. Front Oncol 2021; 11:664809. [PMID: 34540659 PMCID: PMC8443792 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.664809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) following treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can affect almost any organ systems. Multiple-organs irAEs are a rare occurrence which makes its management and treatment very challenging. This is a case report of a 71-year-old man with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who developed multiple-organs irAEs (lung, muscle, myocardium, liver, and pituitary) after a single cycle (21 days) of the BGB-A317 (Tislelizumab). After more than two months of immunosuppression treatment with glucocorticoids, the tumor and inflammatory lesions in the lung were reduced. The levels of serum creatase, cardiac troponin T (TNT), and hepatic transaminase were also reduced. Four months after the termination of ICI therapy, the lung tumor reappeared in the previous site. This rare case report supplies several experiences in the management of multiple-organs irAEs, including full-scale monitoring of immunological indicators, early differential diagnosis, and prompt glucocorticoid therapy. This patient was not a candidate for the ICI re-challenge therapy due to the number and seriousness of irAEs. Multiple-organs irAEs add complexity to the management, and additional research is needed to develop optimal therapeutic guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Deng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Renbin Wang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaojun Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hongliang Sun
- Department of Radiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huijuan Cui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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Drobni ZD, Murphy SP, Alvi RM, Lee C, Gong J, Mosarla RC, Rambarat PK, Hartmann SB, Gilman HK, Zubiri L, Raghu VK, Sullivan RJ, Zafar A, Zlotoff DA, Sise ME, Guidon AC, Reynolds KL, Dougan M, Neilan TG. Association between incidental statin use and skeletal myopathies in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2021; 1:ltab014. [PMID: 34541581 PMCID: PMC8444991 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltab014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Skeletal myopathies are highly morbid, and in rare cases even fatal, immune-related adverse events (irAE) associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Skeletal myopathies are also a recognized statin-associated side effect. It is unknown whether concurrent use of statins and ICIs increases the risk of skeletal myopathies. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of all patients who were treated with an ICI at a single academic institution (Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA). The primary outcome of interest was the development of a skeletal myopathy. The secondary outcome of interest was an elevated creatine kinase level (above the upper limit of normal). Results Among 2757 patients, 861 (31.2%) were treated with a statin at the time of ICI start. Statin users were older, more likely to be male and had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular co-morbidities. During a median follow-up of 194 days (inter quartile range 65–410), a skeletal myopathy occurred in 33 patients (1.2%) and was more common among statin users (2.7 vs. 0.9%, P < 0.001). Creatine kinase (CK) elevation was present in 16.3% (114/699) and was higher among statin users (20.0 vs. 14.3%, P = 0.067). In a multivariable Cox model, statin therapy was associated with a >2-fold higher risk for skeletal myopathy (HR, 2.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–4.50; P = 0.033). Conclusion In this large cohort of ICI-treated patients, a higher risk was observed for skeletal myopathies and elevation in CK levels in patients undergoing concurrent statin therapy. Prospective observational studies are warranted to further elucidate the potential association between statin use and ICI-associated myopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsofia D Drobni
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Cardiovascular Imaging Research Group, Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Cardio-Oncology Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sean P Murphy
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Raza M Alvi
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charlotte Lee
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jingyi Gong
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ramya C Mosarla
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paula K Rambarat
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sarah B Hartmann
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hannah K Gilman
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Leyre Zubiri
- Division of Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vineet K Raghu
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ryan J Sullivan
- Division of Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amna Zafar
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel A Zlotoff
- Cardio-Oncology Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Meghan E Sise
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amanda C Guidon
- Division of Neuromuscular Medicine, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kerry L Reynolds
- Division of Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Dougan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tomas G Neilan
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Cardio-Oncology Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Luo YB, Tang W, Zeng Q, Duan W, Li S, Yang X, Bi F. Case Report: The Neuromusclar Triad of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Case Report of Myositis, Myocarditis, and Myasthenia Gravis Overlap Following Toripalimab Treatment. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:714460. [PMID: 34485412 PMCID: PMC8415306 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.714460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular adverse events of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment include myositis, polymyalgia rheumatica, myocarditis, and myasthenia syndrome. We report a 47-year old female presenting with external ophthalmoplegia, generalized muscle weakness, and third-degree atrioventricular block 4 weeks after toripalimab treatment for metastatic thymoma. Creatine kinase was elevated to 25,200 U/l and cardiac troponin I to 2.796 ng/ml. Autoantibody profiling shows positive anti-ryanodine receptor and anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies and negative myositis specific antibodies. Repetitive nerve stimulation did not reveal decrement of compound muscle action potentials. Pulse methylprednisolone and immunoglobulin infusion, together with temporary pacemaker insertion normalized her muscle enzyme levels and cardiac rhythm. This is the first report of overlaping neuromuscular adverse event of toripalimab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Bei Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weiting Tang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiuming Zeng
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weiwei Duan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shuyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaosu Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fangfang Bi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Life-threatening polymyositis with spontaneous hematoma induced by nivolumab in a patient with previously resected melanoma. Melanoma Res 2021; 31:85-87. [PMID: 33196530 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Single-agent anti-PD1 antibodies are usually very well tolerated, but serious toxicity can still occur. Despite the PD-1 pathway seems to be relevant in the pathogenesis of immune-related myositis, anti-PD1-related myositis is generally a rare side effect of the treatment and usually not serious. However, its frequency is likely to increase as the use of immune checkpoint blockades. We present here a case of life-threatening polymyositis with associated spontaneous muscular hematoma in a patient treated with single-agent nivolumab in the adjuvant setting. Spontaneous hematoma is an extremely rare complication with unclear etiology of idiopathic myositis. Very few cases have been reported in the literature and their outcome has been often fatal. To our knowledge, this is the first case of autoimmune myositis and spontaneous heamatoma associated with the administration of single-agent checkpoint blockade. Anti-PD1 antibodies have changed the treatment landscape for a number of cancer entities in the past few years. When given as single agent they are usually very well tolerated, but serious rare toxicity can still occur. We present here a case of polymyositis with associated spontaneous muscular hematoma in a patient treated with single agent nivolumab.
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Chaloulos-Iakovidis P, Aicher ML, Chilver-Stainer L. [An Unusual Cause for a Bilateral Ptosis]. PRAXIS 2021; 110:643-646. [PMID: 34465196 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
An Unusual Cause for a Bilateral Ptosis Abstract. Immune-checkpoint-inhibitors are increasingly used in various malignancies. Autoimmune side effects such as colitis, hepatitis or skin reactions are well known, on the other hand neurological autoimmune complications such as myasthenic syndromes, myopathies or overlap syndromes with potentially life-threatening complications are less common and not well understood. A precise diagnosis has far reaching therapeutic consequences. Here we present the case of a patient under immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, in which the diagnosis, due to the presence of overlap symptoms, is shown to be challenging. However, it was crucial to find the correct diagnosis in order to choose the proper therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie Louise Aicher
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Inselspital, Universitätsspital Bern, Bern
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Rheumatic Immune-Related Adverse Events-A Consequence of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10060561. [PMID: 34203101 PMCID: PMC8235766 DOI: 10.3390/biology10060561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer therapy has evolved over the years, immunotherapy being the most used for untreatable malignant tumors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors decrease the ability of tumor cells to escape the immune system. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors have a significant impact in the treatment of cancer, they are associated with various adverse effects, mostly inflammation. The adverse events related to the immune system may affect basically every tissue in the human body, including the digestive tract, endocrine glands, liver, skin, cardiovascular, pulmonary and, also, rheumatic systems. In this review, we address the rheumatic immune-related adverse events related to immunotherapy by depicting the characteristics, diagnostic approach and treatment options. Abstract The advent of immunotherapy has changed the management and therapeutic methods for a variety of malignant tumors in the last decade. Unlike traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy, which works by interfering with cancer cell growth via various pathways and stages of the cell cycle, cancer immunotherapy uses the immune system to reduce malignant cells’ ability to escape the immune system and combat cell proliferation. The widespread use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) over the past 10 years has presented valuable information on the profiles of toxic adverse effects. The attenuation of T-lymphocyte inhibitory mechanisms by ICIs results in immune system hyperactivation, which, as expected, is associated with various adverse events defined by inflammation. These adverse events, known as immune-related adverse events (ir-AEs), may affect any type of tissue throughout the human body, which includes the digestive tract, endocrine glands, liver and skin, with reports of cardiovascular, pulmonary and rheumatic ir-AEs as well. The adverse events that arise from ICI therapy are both novel and unique compared to those of the conventional treatment options. Thus, they require a multidisciplinary approach and continuous updates on the diagnostic approach and management.
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Botta C, Agostino RM, Dattola V, Cianci V, Calandruccio ND, Bianco G, Mafodda A, Maisano R, Iuliano E, Orizzonte G, Mazzacuva D, Falzea AC, Saladino RE, Giannicola R, Restifo G, Aguglia U, Caraglia M, Correale P. Myositis/Myasthenia after Pembrolizumab in a Bladder Cancer Patient with an Autoimmunity-Associated HLA: Immune-Biological Evaluation and Case Report. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6246. [PMID: 34200673 PMCID: PMC8230397 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pembrolizumab (mAb to PD-1) has been recently approved for the therapy of pretreated urothelial cancer. Despite the efficacy, it is often accompanied by unpredictable and sometime severe immune-related (ir) adverse events (AEs). Here, we report the clinical and immune-biological characterization of a patient with a metastatic bladder cancer who developed myositis signs (M) and a myasthenia-like syndrome (MLS) during treatment with pembrolizumab. The patient presented an autoimmunity-associated HLA haplotype (HLA-A*02/HLA-B*08/HLA-C*07/HLA-DRB1*03) and experienced an increase in activated CD8 T-cells along the treatment. The symptomatology regressed after pembrolizumab discontinuation and a pyridostigmine and steroids-based therapy. This is the first report of concurrent M and MLS appearance in cancer patients receiving pembrolizumab. More efforts are needed to define early the risk and the clinical meaning of irAEs in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cirino Botta
- Unit of Hematology, Azienda Ospedaliera “Annunziata”, 87100 Cosenza, Italy
- Hematology Unit, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rita Maria Agostino
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Vincenzo Dattola
- Unit of Neurology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (V.D.); (V.C.); (U.A.)
| | - Vittoria Cianci
- Unit of Neurology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (V.D.); (V.C.); (U.A.)
| | - Natale Daniele Calandruccio
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Giovanna Bianco
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Antonino Mafodda
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Roberto Maisano
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Eleonora Iuliano
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Giovanna Orizzonte
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Domenico Mazzacuva
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Antonia Consuelo Falzea
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Rita Emilena Saladino
- HLA Tissue Typing Laboratory, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Rocco Giannicola
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Giorgio Restifo
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Umberto Aguglia
- Unit of Neurology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (V.D.); (V.C.); (U.A.)
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
- Laboratory of Precision and Molecular Oncology, Biogem Scarl, Institute of Genetic Research, 83031 Ariano Irpino, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Correale
- Unit of Oncology, Unit. Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (R.M.A.); (N.D.C.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (R.M.); (E.I.); (G.O.); (A.C.F.); (R.G.)
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Sharma R, Kadife E, Myers M, Kannourakis G, Prithviraj P, Ahmed N. Determinants of resistance to VEGF-TKI and immune checkpoint inhibitors in metastatic renal cell carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:186. [PMID: 34099013 PMCID: PMC8183071 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01961-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGF-TKIs) have been the mainstay of treatment for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Despite its early promising results in decreasing or delaying the progression of RCC in patients, VEGF-TKIs have provided modest benefits in terms of disease-free progression, as 70% of the patients who initially respond to the treatment later develop drug resistance, with 30% of the patients innately resistant to VEGF-TKIs. In the past decade, several molecular and genetic mechanisms of VEGF-TKI resistance have been reported. One of the mechanisms of VEGF-TKIs is inhibition of the classical angiogenesis pathway. However, recent studies have shown the restoration of an alternative angiogenesis pathway in modulating resistance. Further, in the last 5 years, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized RCC treatment. Although some patients exhibit potent responses, a non-negligible number of patients are innately resistant or develop resistance within a few months to ICI therapy. Hence, an understanding of the mechanisms of VEGF-TKI and ICI resistance will help in formulating useful knowledge about developing effective treatment strategies for patients with advanced RCC. In this article, we review recent findings on the emerging understanding of RCC pathology, VEGF-TKI and ICI resistance mechanisms, and potential avenues to overcome these resistance mechanisms through rationally designed combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revati Sharma
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia
- Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia
| | - Elif Kadife
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia
| | - Mark Myers
- Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia
| | - George Kannourakis
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia
- Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia
| | | | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia.
- Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia.
- The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
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Takatsuki K, Yanagihara T, Egashira A, Ogo N, Yoshizawa S, Sunami S, Asoh T, Maeyama T. A Rare Case of Pembrolizumab-Induced Dermatomyositis in a Patient with Cancer of Unknown Primary Origin. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2021. [PMID: 33903584 DOI: 10.1265/ajcr.930286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pembrolizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody against programmed cell death-1 protein. Pembrolizumab sometimes causes immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Dermatomyositis is a rare irAE of immune checkpoint inhibitors. The presentation is usually acute, and symptoms include edema with erythema of the eyelids, erythema of the forehead, and muscle weakness in both thighs. CASE REPORT Here we report a case of pembrolizumab-induced dermatomyositis in a 71-year-old Japanese woman with cancer of unknown primary origin, who experienced a high fever and had difficulty walking after her sixth course of pembrolizumab. General physical examination revealed edema with a heliotrope rash, V-neck signs, and nonspecific erythema of the forehead. Laboratory evaluation revealed that myogenic enzymes were within normal ranges. Autoantibody tests revealed that antinuclear antibodies were negative, and autoantibodies related to myositis and anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies were also negative. A magnetic resonance imaging scan of the thighs revealed signal abnormalities in the left lateral and distal vastus medialis muscle. The patient was treated with corticosteroids, subsequently followed by intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, which led to an improvement of the symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Pembrolizumab-induced dermatomyositis is rare. Corticosteroids have been administered in many cases, and this case also suggests the efficacy of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy in treating immune checkpoint inhibitor-related dermatomyositis. This case highlights practical management of pembrolizumab-induced dermatomyositis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kensaku Takatsuki
- Department of Rheumatology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Toyoshi Yanagihara
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ayaka Egashira
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Naruhiko Ogo
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Seiji Yoshizawa
- Department of Rheumatology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Syunya Sunami
- Department of Radiology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tatsuma Asoh
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashige Maeyama
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
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Takatsuki K, Yanagihara T, Egashira A, Ogo N, Yoshizawa S, Sunami S, Asoh T, Maeyama T. A Rare Case of Pembrolizumab-Induced Dermatomyositis in a Patient with Cancer of Unknown Primary Origin. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2021; 22:e930286. [PMID: 33903584 PMCID: PMC8088784 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.930286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Female, 71-year-old Final Diagnosis: Dermatomyositis Symptoms: Fever • walking difficulties Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Corticosteroids Specialty: Immunology • Oncology • Rheumatology
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Affiliation(s)
- Kensaku Takatsuki
- Department of Rheumatology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Toyoshi Yanagihara
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ayaka Egashira
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Naruhiko Ogo
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Seiji Yoshizawa
- Department of Rheumatology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Syunya Sunami
- Department of Radiology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tatsuma Asoh
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashige Maeyama
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan
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Bolz S, Ramakrishnan T, Fleischer M, Livingstone E, Stolte B, Thimm A, Kizina K, Ugurel S, Kleinschnitz C, Glas M, Zimmer L, Hagenacker T. Detect it so you can treat it: A case series and proposed checklist to detect neurotoxicity in checkpoint therapy. eNeurologicalSci 2021; 22:100324. [PMID: 33604462 PMCID: PMC7876540 DOI: 10.1016/j.ensci.2021.100324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Checkpoint inhibitors show impressive and durable responses in various cancer types and provide new avenues for cancer immunotherapy. However, these drugs have a variety of adverse events. Common autoimmune-related adverse effects include fatigue, hepatitis, skin rash, endocrine deficiencies, and colitis. Neurotoxicity has been reported, but its incidence and course remain unclear. Methods To illustrate the broad spectrum of neurotoxicity, we exemplarily report the neurological adverse events of five patients with melanoma and one patient with differentiated thyroid cancer who received checkpoint inhibitors at Essen University Hospital (Essen, Germany). Results After treatment with ipilimumab, nivolumab or pembrolizumab, neurotoxic effects included hypophysitis-associated neck pain and headache, Guillain-Barré syndrome, transverse myelitis, acute brachial plexus neuritis, and ocular myasthenia gravis. Conclusions Checkpoint inhibitor therapy remains a success story; however, neurological immune-related adverse events may cause severe life-threatening conditions. We propose a guide for the early detection of neurological adverse events during routine clinical treatment to prevent more severe courses of checkpoint inhibitor-induced neurotoxicity. We present neurological immune-related adverse events under checkpoint-inhibitors to underline the spectrums of manifestations. Neurological immune-related adverse events may cause severe life-threatening conditions. Practitioners should be aware of red flags symptoms to detect neurological immune-related adverse events
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Key Words
- AIDP, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
- CIDP, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
- CNS, central nervous system
- CSF, cerebrospinal fluid
- Checkpoint inhibitor
- Guide
- ICI, immune checkpoint inhibitor
- IVIG, intravenous immunoglobulin
- Ipilimumab
- MG, Myasthenia Gravis
- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging
- Melanoma
- Neurotoxicity
- Nivolumab
- PD-L1, programmed cell death protein 1 ligand
- anti-CTLA-4, anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4
- anti-PD-1, anti-programmed cell death protein 1
- i.v, intravenous
- irAE, immune-related adverse events
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Bolz
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Thivyah Ramakrishnan
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Fleischer
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Livingstone
- Department of Dermatology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Stolte
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Andreas Thimm
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Kathrin Kizina
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Selma Ugurel
- Department of Dermatology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Kleinschnitz
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Glas
- Division of Clinical Neurooncology, Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Lisa Zimmer
- Department of Dermatology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tim Hagenacker
- Department of Neurology, Essen University Hospital, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
- Corresponding author at: Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Essen, Germany.
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Lackner A, Tiefenthaler V, Mirzayeva J, Posch F, Rossmann C, Kastrati K, Radner H, Demel U, Gretler J, Stotz M, Graninger WB, Stradner MH. The use and diagnostic value of testing myositis-specific and myositis-associated autoantibodies by line immuno-assay: a retrospective study. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2020; 12:1759720X20975907. [PMID: 33343724 PMCID: PMC7727081 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x20975907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Line immune-assays (LIA) for the detection of myositis-specific antibodies (MSA) are used widely for characterization of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM). Their current use and significance for the diagnosis of IIM remains unclear. METHODS In this retrospective analysis, we retrieved clinical diagnoses of patients tested for MSA and myositis-associated antibodies (MAA) Jo-1, Mi-2α, Mi-2β, TIF1γ, SRP, MDA-5, NXP-2, SAE, PL-7, PL-12, EJ, OJ, PM-Scl100, PM-Scl75 and Ku. We calculated clinical specificity, clinical sensitivity, negative- and positive predictive values (PPV) as well as positive and negative likelihood ratios. RESULTS In total, we analyzed 3167 samples. After exclusion of repeated measurements and patients with insufficient clinical information, data of 1118 patients were available for analysis. A total of 242 patients tested positive for at least one antibody, of which 45 patients had a diagnosis of IIM; 25 IIM patients were negative for all MSA/MAA. Clinical specificity of MSA/MAA for the diagnosis of IIM ranged between 94.2% and 99.9%. Clinical sensitivity and PPV across all antibodies tested ranged from 0.0% to 12.9% and 0.0% to 72.7%, respectively. CONCLUSION In clinical practice MSA/MAA are used widely for diagnostic work-up of IIM, resulting in a low pre-test probability. Clinicians should be aware that PPVs for most MSA/MAA are low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika Lackner
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Viktoria Tiefenthaler
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Jalia Mirzayeva
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Florian Posch
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Christopher Rossmann
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Kastriot Kastrati
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Helga Radner
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrike Demel
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Judith Gretler
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Michael Stotz
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Winfried B Graninger
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Steiermark, Austria
| | - Martin H Stradner
- Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, Graz, Steiermark 8036, Austria
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Solimando AG, Summa SD, Vacca A, Ribatti D. Cancer-Associated Angiogenesis: The Endothelial Cell as a Checkpoint for Immunological Patrolling. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113380. [PMID: 33203154 PMCID: PMC7696032 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A clinical decision and study design investigating the level and extent of angiogenesis modulation aimed at vascular normalization without rendering tissues hypoxic is key and represents an unmet medical need. Specifically, determining the active concentration and optimal times of the administration of antiangiogenetic drugs is crucial to inhibit the growth of any microscopic residual tumor after surgical resection and in the pre-malignant and smolder neoplastic state. This review uncovers the pre-clinical translational insights crucial to overcome the caveats faced so far while employing anti-angiogenesis. This literature revision also explores how abnormalities in the tumor endothelium harm the crosstalk with an effective immune cell response, envisioning a novel combination with other anti-cancer drugs and immunomodulatory agents. These insights hold vast potential to both repress tumorigenesis and unleash an effective immune response. Abstract Cancer-associated neo vessels’ formation acts as a gatekeeper that orchestrates the entrance and egress of patrolling immune cells within the tumor milieu. This is achieved, in part, via the directed chemokines’ expression and cell adhesion molecules on the endothelial cell surface that attract and retain circulating leukocytes. The crosstalk between adaptive immune cells and the cancer endothelium is thus essential for tumor immune surveillance and the success of immune-based therapies that harness immune cells to kill tumor cells. This review will focus on the biology of the endothelium and will explore the vascular-specific molecular mediators that control the recruitment, retention, and trafficking of immune cells that are essential for effective antitumor immunity. The literature revision will also explore how abnormalities in the tumor endothelium impair crosstalk with adaptive immune cells and how targeting these abnormalities can improve the success of immune-based therapies for different malignancies, with a particular focus on the paradigmatic example represented by multiple myeloma. We also generated and provide two original bio-informatic analyses, in order to sketch the physiopathology underlying the endothelial–neoplastic interactions in an easier manner, feeding into a vicious cycle propagating disease progression and highlighting novel pathways that might be exploited therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Giovanni Solimando
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Section of Internal Medicine ‘G. Baccelli’, University of Bari Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy;
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.G.S.); (D.R.); Tel.: +39-3395626475 (A.G.S.); +39-080-5478326 (D.R.)
| | - Simona De Summa
- Molecular Diagnostics and Pharmacogenetics Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Angelo Vacca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Section of Internal Medicine ‘G. Baccelli’, University of Bari Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.G.S.); (D.R.); Tel.: +39-3395626475 (A.G.S.); +39-080-5478326 (D.R.)
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