Cancer groups offer guidance on immune-related adverse events

Stepwise approach

Side effects of checkpoint inhibitors are typically mild, but they can be severe and sometimes life-threatening, according to ASCO and NCCN.

If immune-related adverse events are mild (i.e., grade 1), treatment can continue with close monitoring, according to the guidelines. By contrast, moderate to severe immune-related adverse events can lead to severe declines in organ function and quality of life, or even fatal outcomes, so early detection and proper management are needed.

Grade 2 toxicities warrant suspending immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment, and resuming it once symptoms subside to grade 1 or less, according to the guidelines. Grade 3 toxicities should also prompt suspension of treatment, plus initiation of high-dose corticosteroids tapered over at least 4-6 weeks.

For most toxicities that reach grade 4, permanent discontinuation of checkpoint inhibitors is recommended.

A thoughtful discussion of potential risks and benefits is needed before using immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients who have autoimmune disease or prior organ transplant, according to the guidelines.