Ocular Complications of Checkpoint Inhibitors and Immunotherapeutic Agents: A Case Series

Background Ophthalmologists have a role in assessing immune-related adverse events (IRAE) in oncology patients on immunotherapy. We assessed the utility of a hospital-wide toxicity team in referring patients with new ocular symptoms for examination. We also identified new immunotherapy agents causing ocular side-effects. Design A cohort study of eight consecutive patients on immunotherapy, who developed ocular IRAE from November 1, 2017 to June 30, 2019. All were seen at the Ocular Immunology Division of the Wilmer Eye Institute and referred by the Johns Hopkins Toxicity Team. Results All eight patients on had IRAEs; were treated with corticosteroid drops or observation with clinical resolution. Two new agents, epocadostat and daratumumab, were associated with the development of uveitis. Conclusion Ophthalmologists play an important role in a hospital-wide toxicity team and need to include IRAEs in their differential diagnosis. Given new drug development, ophthalmologists may be the first to identify IRAEs.

Automated summary

This study found that ophthalmologists play a crucial role in a hospital-wide toxicity team and need to consider IRAEs in their differential diagnosis. Two new drugs were identified to be associated with the development of uveitis.