Immunopathological basis of immune-related adverse events induced by immune checkpoint blockade therapy

Despite the considerable success of cancer immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors, their nonspecific release of the immunosuppressive mechanism is often associated with immune-related adverse events (irAEs). irAEs significantly disturb patients' quality of life and can even be life-threatening. Therefore, the appropriate management of irAEs is crucial for the development of further reliable cancer immunotherapies. irAEs have the appearance of ordinary autoimmune diseases in one aspect but often have distinct features. Although the detailed pathogenesis of irAEs remains unclear, increasing numbers of studies have provided numerous clues. Here, we review the current knowledge on irAEs, particularly from an immunopathological basis.

Automated summary

Despite the success of cancer immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors, the nonspecific release of immunosuppressive mechanisms can lead to immune-related adverse events (irAEs) that significantly impact patients' quality of life. Proper management of irAEs is crucial for the advancement of reliable cancer immunotherapies. IrAEs resemble autoimmune diseases but often have distinct features, and while the detailed pathogenesis remains unclear, numerous studies are providing insights into this phenomenon.