1 Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) (anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1, anti-PD-L1) may constitute a breakthrough in terms of a new type of immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer as they have contributed to improvement in the prognosis of patients with neoplasms, such as melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), urothelial carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), or neoplasms of the lymphatic system—Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Despite their promise, however, it is only reasonable to expect that both patients and doctors will have to contend with a wide spectrum of immune-related adverse reactions associated with the treatment. Dealing with these iatrogenic complications, will not only be the remit of oncologists but because of the likelihood that specific organs will be affected, means it is likely to extend also to specialists in various fields of internal medicine. Additionally, patients with more non-specific symptoms would be expected, in the first instance, to consult their general practitioners (GPs), and thus, the effectiveness of further treatment will depend on the initial decisions taken with regard to their presentation. The most frequently reported general symptoms are fatigue and weakness, which may be a direct result of anti-PD-1/anti-CTLA-4 therapy, but may also be a symptom of endocrinopathy, e.g., hypothyroidism, or even a sign of progression of the underlying disease. Both large clinical trials and case reports serve to remind us that adverse reactions may occur at any stage of treatment, even many weeks after its completion, i.e., when the patient is no longer under close oncological supervision, but under the care of an internist or GPs [1].

The purpose of this article is an attempt to familiarize internists and GPs with the possible complications arising from the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4). Antibodies targeting these pathways are designed to enhance the immune response against cancer cells. The importance of this treatment strategy is evidenced in the award of the Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology to J.P. Allison and T. Honjo for their contribution to the development of immunotherapy in 2018.

2 Mechanisms of immune control in the process of carcinogenesis

The development of cancer is closely related to the immune system being compromised. Cancer cells can develop resistance to the mechanisms of the immune system, thus gaining the possibility of uncontrolled progression. This phenomenon can be explained in terms of cancer immunoediting theory, which contends that transformed cells may escape in the final phase of a process of control consisting of three phases: elimination, equilibrium, and escape and which constitutes a specific form of immune surveillance of cancer cells. In the first phase, suppressor mechanisms detect and eliminate developing tumors before they become clinically evident. The next step is equilibrium—a phase of tumor quiescence, in which both the tumor and immune cells are brought into a dynamic equilibrium that keeps the evolution of the cancer in check. Finally, escape represents the point of emergence of cancer cells, which either show reduced immunogenicity or trigger a large number of possible immunosuppressive mechanisms that impair the anti-tumor immune response, leading to the appearance of progressively growing tumors [2].

Immunotherapy has a well-established position in the treatment of cancer patients, especially in those with melanoma, and our state of knowledge in this area has increased significantly in recent years. While many studies have not demonstrated the expected results, current reports and experience associated with the use of interleukin-2 (IL-2) or interferon-α have shown the potential benefits that may be achieved in patients treated with therapies modulating the immune response.

In recent years, significant progress in oncology has been observed as a result of the widespread introduction of immunotherapy. Furthermore, increasing numbers of new antibodies are under clinical trials, and those already in clinical use are gaining a wider range of applications. According to data published by Jin Xin Yu et al. [3] in Nature in 2019, there is a growing interest in immuno-oncology. Over a period of 2 years (2017–2019), an increase in the number of active agents of around 91%, a 78% increase in active immuno-oncology targets, and a 60% increase in participating organizations were noted. The number of T-cell modulators used in clinical trials rose from 332 in 2017 to 620 in 2019. There can be little doubt that increasingly cancer patients worldwide will be administered immunotherapy in routine clinical settings. Table 1 presents ICIs categorized by mechanism of action that are utilized in the treatment of cancer patients.

Table 1 Classification of drugs according to their mechanism of action and diseases treated
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New drugs of this kind affecting the patient’s immune system provide a challenge to doctors, not only oncologists, but also internists and GPs, who will inevitably come into contact with the adverse complications engendered by this treatment. Moreover, oncologists themselves are likely to turn to doctors of other specialties for help and support in the face of these new challenges.

3 PD-1/PD-L1 axis and its role in cancer

T lymphocytes, which are responsible for inducing a specific immune response, play an important role in the immune response to an emerging antigen. Lymphocyte surface receptors are relevant ligand molecules which are stimulated when in contact with an antigen-presenting cell (APC). Cell activation requires specific recognition of the antigen presented, as well as a signal from co-stimulators that are mobilized during the formation of an immune synapse. Co-stimulators on the surface of lymphocyte cells may include the family of CD28 cell differentiation antigens [4].

Negative cell receptors are molecules that produce a signal that inhibits cell effector functions. This mechanism is designed to prevent the undesirable effects of overstimulation and ultimately cause an autoreactive response or stimulation of carcinogenesis once the defensive role of the lymphocyte antigen is terminated. This type of receptor is the PD-1 (CD279), a member of the B7 (CD28) family [5]. The transmembrane glycoprotein is expressed on activated T and B lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, and monocytes. PD-1 has a cytoplasmic tail in its structure with two tyrosine kinase domains responsible for inhibitory signaling, while the expression of PD-1 during antigen stimulation is dependent on the signaling pathway of the T and B lymphocyte receptor (TCR, BCR) [6, 7].

Activation of PD-1 occurs upon binding to one of two known ligands: PD-L1 or PD-L2 [8, 9]. Each of them is expressed on the surface of APCs, including dendritic cells, but on the basis of current research, it appears that PD-L1 is mainly responsible for the suppressive effect, as it has been shown that anti-PD-1 inhibiting drugs have a greater affinity for ligands than activated T lymphocytes [10].

Upon activation of the PD-1 receptor by ligand signaling, the negative feedback pathway leads to TCR/BCR inhibition and a reduction in the intensity of cytokine production (in addition to inhibiting IL-10). Moreover, it impairs the production of anti-apoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma) and Bcl-xL (B-cell extra-large lymphoma) [6]. The effect of PD-1 stimulation on the cell cycle has also been described. Enhancement of p15 protein expression inhibits G1 phase transition and SKP2 transcription. This gene is responsible for the coding of the protein component of ubiquitin ligase, which degrades the p27 tumor suppressor [11]. During prolonged antigenic stimulation, e.g., carcinogenesis or chronic viral infections, PD-1 overexpression leads to the T-cell phenotype described as “exhausted” whose functions are inactivated and thus reduces proliferation and the ability to produce interferon γ (IFN-γ) leading to cytotoxicity (Fig. 1). This mechanism enables the cancer cells to induce only a weak immune response, avoid elimination by the immune system, and create the conditions necessary for further development and continue the process of carcinogenesis. The intensified expression of PD-L1 on the cell surface of many types of solid tumors has been demonstrated, and numerous studies have shown that it is a negative prognostic factor in patients with melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, breast, lung, stomach, pancreas, liver, bladder, or ovarian cancer [12 - 17]. In the light of these reports, interesting observations were made in a study published in 2012, confirming that PD-L1 overexpression on the tumor surface is not always associated with a poor prognosis. Demonstrating significantly extended rates of survival in melanoma patients with confirmed exposure of PD-L1 lymphocytes makes it possible to formulate the hypothesis that their function was weakened due to the reaction with neoplastic cells by antitumor IFN-γ, which in turn led to increased PD-L1 expression. Such conclusions should be made with caution and with due attention to continuing research in this area [18].

Fig. 1
figure 1

PD-1/PD-L1 axis and its inhibitors’ role in regulation of T-cell functions. During prolonged antigenic stimulation, e.g., carcinogenesis or chronic viral infections, PD-1 overexpression results in the inhibition of T-cell proliferative and cytotoxic activity. Such T-cell lymphocytes, called “exhausted” T-cells, are characterized among others by impaired ability to produce interferon γ (IFN-γ). PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are capable of converting “exhausted” T-cells into effector T-cells. (+) active T-cell, (-) inactive T-cell. PD-1, programmed cell death protein 1; PD-L1, programmed death-ligand 1; MHC, major histocompatibility complex

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However, the involvement of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathways as an acquired cancer adaptation mechanism is possible, and we can use this information as an indicator of resistance to the body’s defense mechanisms. The effectiveness of blocking the transduction pathway in order to achieve a better therapeutic effect in cancer patients in whom overexpression of PD-1 ligands is thought to occur by restoring the effector function of phenotypically “exhausted” T cells has been confirmed in preclinical studies. It was found that inhibition of PD-1/PD-L1 function contributes to restoration of T lymphocyte function [19] and promotes the penetration of CD8+ T cells in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer, having a synergistic effect with standard chemotherapy [20] and limiting the spread of melanoma and colorectal cancer in mice [21]. Moreover, the use of such treatment improves the effectiveness of other immunotherapy methods, including antibodies against CTLA-4 [22]. In the light of these reports, it may be concluded that antibodies blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway would appear to provide appropriate indications for improving the effectiveness of immunotherapy in cancer patients.

4 Anti PD-1 agents in anticancer therapy

4.1 Nivolumab

Nivolumab is a human IgG4a antibody that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA, USA) in 2014 for monotherapy in patients with advanced or unresectable cutaneous melanoma. As the result of numerous clinical trials, the indications were extended among others to include patients with the BRAF V600 mutation who demonstrated disease progression after treatment with BRAF inhibitors [23]. In addition, combination therapy with ipilimumab was approved [24] as was the use of nivolumab in adjuvant treatment after complete surgical resection in patients with nodal involvement [25]. Cutaneous melanoma is not the only cancer in which the additional benefits of nivolumab treatment over standard chemotherapy regimens have been demonstrated. Promising treatment results have been reported in patients with progressive advanced NSCLC during or after first-line treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy. Nivolumab monotherapy was shown to be more effective than standard docetaxel chemotherapy in achieving an objective response rate (ORR) (about 20% vs 9%), extending progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) with a significantly lower rate of adverse events of G≥3 (10% vs 54%) [26]. It should be noted, however, that some studies have failed to demonstrate any extension of PFS and OS with nivolumab [27]. Nivolumab almost doubles the estimated 1-year survival in patients treated for recurrent or metastatic HNSCC after chemotherapy with platinum derivatives as compared to other drugs used in second-line treatment (docetaxel, methotrexate, cetuximab) [28]. Nivolumab monotherapy has also been shown to bring significant clinical benefit, associated with an acceptable safety profile in patients with advanced or unresectable bladder cancer who had undergone a course of chemotherapy [29].

Long-term responses to treatment and extension of overall survival were the basis for the approval of nivolumab for the treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma after prior anti-angiogenic treatment [30]. For patients with HCC, similar FDA registration decisions were driven by studies that demonstrated durable objective responses with a satisfactory safety profile [31]. In the light of recent studies, nivolumab is also an interesting therapeutic option for patients with advanced colorectal cancer with MSI or MMR deficiency [32]. This group of patients has a poor prognosis and a poor response to standard treatment, but currently available data are not yet sufficient to extend access to nivolumab for these patients, as is the case for women with advanced ovarian cancer resistant to platinum-based chemotherapy [33]. Nivolumab has been used not only in the treatment of patients with solid tumors, but also in patients with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin’s lymphoma. One study showed a high ORR of 87% and 17% of patients achieved a complete response (CR), with a slightly higher percentage of patients with complications of ≥3 degree compared to patients treated with nivolumab for solid tumors [34].

4.2 Pembrolizumab

Pembrolizumab is a humanized antibody that, like nivolumab, belongs to the IgG4a class. Clinical trials have shown that patients diagnosed with advanced cutaneous melanoma benefit significantly from treatment with pembrolizumab in terms of response rates, extension of PFS and OS, both in treatment-naive patients [35] and in those with disease progression [36]. Pembrolizumab is also used in the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic, NSCLC, who do not have EGFR and ALK mutations and a level of neoplastic cells with PD-L1 expression in neoplastic tissue below 50% [37]. In the case of patients with a failure to respond to platinum-based chemotherapy or targeted therapy in patients with EGFR or ALK mutations, pembrolizumab can be used as the second line of treatment. Patients with NSCLC of non-squamous cell etiology may be treated with this anti-PD-1 antibody in combination with pemetrexed and platinum derivatives [38].

Pembrolizumab is also indicated in the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic bladder cancer after failure of platinum-based chemotherapy or when its use is contraindicated [39, 40]. Clinical trials in patients with HNSCC have also provided promising results, though so far, the results of treatment of patients with advanced tumors have not proved sufficiently satisfactory. There is evidence that pembrolizumab monotherapy after failure of treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy regimens allows for a statistically significant extension of OS compared to standard second-line chemotherapy regimens [39]. In patients with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, pembrolizumab can be used after autologous bone marrow transplantation and brentuximab therapy or when transplantation is not possible and the patient has failed to respond to treatment with brentuximab.

4.3 Pidilizumab

Pidilizumab is one of the first anti-PD-1 molecules to be used in cancer patients. It is a humanized, mouse IgG1 antibody that shows strong antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity. Studies in mice have shown that T cells and NK cells are needed for the anti-tumor function to be fulfilled [41].

Phase 1 and 2 studies have been conducted to assess the efficacy of the treatment of DLBC after autologous stem cell transfer [42, 43], relapsed FL [41] and melanoma [44]. The possibility of treating patients with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma in children [45] and with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (with lenalidomide) is currently being assessed.

4.4 Cemiplimab

Cemiplimab is the first G4 antibody approved in the EU and the USA [46] for use in patients with metastatic or locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). In clinical trials, half of the patients responded to treatment [46, 47]. The median value for PFS and OS [48] were not reached during the course of the research, which indicates clinically significant treatment effectiveness and durability of responses.

5 Anti PD-L1 agents in anticancer therapy

5.1 Atezolizumab

Atezolizumab is a humanized antibody indicated in monotherapy in patients with locally advanced or disseminated bladder cancer after prior platinum-based chemotherapy or with contraindications for this group of cytostatics [49]. It is also approved for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or disseminated NSCLC after prior chemotherapy or targeted treatment (depending on EGFR or ALK mutation status) [50].

5.2 Durvalumab

Durvalumab is a human monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of patients with locally advanced, inoperable NSCLC after radiochemotherapy. In a multicenter, randomized clinical trial, it was demonstrated that the progression-free time (17.2 vs. 5.6 months) was extended almost threefold in patients treated with durvalumab compared to placebo [51]. At the same time, in 2017, the FDA approved durvalumab by means of an accelerated procedure for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer who had received no benefit from platinum-based chemotherapy [52].

5.3 Avelumab

Avelumab is a fully human antibody that shows a double effect—it prevents the connection of PD-L1 on a tumor cell with PD-1 on T lymphocytes and has ADCC activity, which is induced by binding to receptors on the effector cells of the immune system [53, 54]. The ability of avelumab to enhance ADCC has led to a great deal of research being conducted into its mechanism of action and effectiveness in the treatment of neoplastic diseases.

Avelumab has been approved for the treatment of advanced MCC [55]. The FDA has approved avelumab as a second-line drug after or during platinum chemotherapy in locally advanced/metastatic urothelial cancer [56, 57]. After demonstrating an improvement in PFS for avelumab with axitinib as compared to sunitinib (PFS 13.8 months vs 8.4 in sunitinib) in renal cell carcinoma, it was also approved for this indication [58].

6 Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and its role in cancer

A number of studies of antibodies blocking the cytotoxic T cell antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and thus intensifying the immune response against the tumor cells have been successfully completed. Data obtained in clinical trials of ipilimumab (anti-CTLA-4) were the basis for approval of the drug in 2011 by the FDA in patients with clinically advanced melanoma.

The CTLA-4 molecule is recruited from the cytoplasm to the T cell effector membrane [59], where it forms part of the immune synapse. The activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes takes place in two phases. The first signal is the recognition of the antigen presented by histocompatibility molecules (MHC class I or II) on the surface of APC by the TCR, which leads to an increase in the sensitivity of CD4 and CD8 receptors. The second signal necessary for synapse formation is the interaction of co-stimulating CD80/CD86 molecules (B7-1 and B7-2) on the surface of APC with CD28 on the surface of T lymphocytes, which leads to the activation and differentiation of lymphocytes. CTLA-4 competes with CD28 for binding to ligands on the APC cell, with a higher affinity for B7 family ligands, thereby displacing CD28 from association with CD80/86. The binding of CTLA-4 to ligands (CD80-B7-1, CD86-B7-2) on APC cells leads to the triggering of an inhibitory reaction-suppression of the immune response by blocking the T-lymphocyte response, reducing the proliferation of T lymphocytes, inhibiting the activity of Treg lymphocytes, and reducing cytokine secretion and consequently, to immunosuppression [59,54,61].

Moreover high levels of expression of CTLA-4 lead to functional reprogramming of T helper lymphocytes into regulatory T lymphocytes which exhibit strong immunosuppressive properties. All in all, CTLA-4 contributes to the immune deficiency observed in cancer patients. T-cell activation, inhibition, and reactivation by blocking CTLA-4 with anti-CTLA-4 antibodies (ipilimumab, tremelimumab) are presented in Fig. 2.

Fig. 2
figure 2

A model of T-cell activation, inhibition, and reactivation by blocking CTLA-4 with anti-CTLA-4 antibodies (ipilimumab, tremelimumab). T-cell activation requires 2 signals: the first, binding MCH with TCR; the second, interaction of CD28 on the T-cell with B7 (CD 80, CD 86) on APC. After T-cell activation, CTLA-4 is displaced to the plasma membrane and functions as a T-cell activation inhibitor. Anti-CTLA-4 antibody binds with CTLA-4 which results in T-cell reactivation. APC, antigen-presenting cell; TCR, T-cell receptor; CTLA-4, cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4; MHC, major histocompatibility complex

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The purpose of antibody therapy is to unblock the suppressed immune response and increase the activity of T lymphocytes in the lymph nodes, which translates into an effective immune response and the destruction of neoplastic cells.

7 Anti-CTLA-4 agents in anticancer therapy

7.1 Ipilimumab

Anti-CTLA-4 was the first ICI tested with promising activity in oncological patients. In fact ipilimumab was the first antibody approved by the FDA and introduced into routine clinical practice in cancer patients. It is a fully human anti-CTLA-4 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody that has been shown to provide a long-term survival advantage in patients with advanced cutaneous melanoma [62]. Earlier, attention was also paid to the significant extension of OS, despite a relatively small percentage of objective responses to treatment (approximately 10% of patients) and the limited number of patients deriving long-term benefits from the treatment (20–25%). Attention was also drawn to the unusual profile of adverse events during the course of ipilimumab treatment—mainly skin and gastrointestinal reactions. From the very beginning, experience with the use of anti-CTLA-4 therapy led to the emphasis that patients should be under multidisciplinary medical care.

7.2 Tremelimumab

In contrast to ipilimumab, research on tremelimumab has not yet brought promising results, which might encourage its widespread use in monotherapy [63]. In the studies published so far response rates of 15% and 30%, respectively, were reported in HCC patients treated with tremelimumab and nivolumab [64]. However, research is ongoing with regard to the combination of treatment with tremelimumab and durvalumab.

8 Combined treatment with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 and anti-CTLA-4

The inhibition of two immune checkpoints has been the subject of research carried out almost in parallel with the introduction of single drugs into general use and is justified by the complementary mechanisms of action of the two (Fig. 3). While the efficacy and toxicity profile of ipilimumab treatment was known in the course of treatment of advanced cutaneous melanoma [65], the combination of anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 treatment posed new challenges in the treatment of adverse events. It was found that inhibiting two checkpoints produced better clinical outcomes than by using the drugs in monotherapy. The objective response rate for the combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab was 57.6%, while for nivolumab monotherapy it was 43.7%, compared to 19% in patients treated with ipilimumab alone for advanced skin melanoma. Moreover, the median PFS was 11.5 months, which is a significant improvement compared to ipilimumab monotherapy (2.9 months). OS was also extended with combination therapy. The 2-year OS was 64% vs 59% for nivolumab monotherapy and 45% for ipilimumab [66].

Fig. 3
figure 3

The role of immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti-PD-1, anti-PD-L1, anti-CTLA-4) in T-cell lymphocyte reactivation. Inhibited cytotoxic T lymphocyte functions in cancer patients (A). ICIs reactivate T-cells and thereby reinforce immunity against cancer (B). The use of two checkpoint inhibitors in concert (anti-PD-1/PD-L1 and anti-CTLA-4) is justified by their complementary mechanisms of action (B). CTLA-4, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4; Shp2, protein tyrosine phosphate 2; PLCY, phospholipase C gamma; ICOS, inducible T-cell costimulator (CD 278); PP2A, protein phosphate 2A; B7, B7-1 (CD 80), B7-2 (CD 86); PI 3K, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase; AKT, protein kinase B; NFAT, nuclear factor of activated T-cell; mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin; NF-KB, nuclear factor kB; IL-2, interleukin 2; BclxL, B-cell lymphoma extra-large; PD-1, programmed cell death protein 1; PD-L1, programmed death-ligand 1; SKP2, S-phase kinase-associated protein 2; p27, protein regulating cell cycle; CDKS cyclin-dependent kinases

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9 Principles for the management of adverse events associated with the use of immunotherapy in patients with malignant tumors.

In studies published so far, particular attention has been paid to the severity, frequency, and intensity of complications arising during treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In the case of monotherapy with nivolumab or ipilimumab, the incidence of adverse events was estimated to occur in around 80% of treated patients, these being mainly general symptoms of minor intensity. In the case of combination therapy, the incidence of adverse events increases to around 95% with a significant rise in the percentage of serious G3/4 adverse events (about 55%). The most common were diarrhea (44.1%), fatigue (35.1%), and itching (33.2%) [67]. In terms of gastrointestinal complications, pancreatitis and enteritis (usually diagnosed by CT) may also occur. These rare complications require termination of treatment and the introduction of immunosuppressive drugs [68].

This increased severity of adverse events is the price that patients are required to pay for improvement in the results of treatment provided by the combination of anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 in therapy. Early diagnosis and treatment of irAE lies in the hands of the health care system and medical staff, starting from the point of initial contact with GPs through to highly specialized clinics. The increase in the incidence of adverse events in G3/4 requires involvement, not only from oncologists but also specialists in other fields.

Cancer immunotherapy has now become the standard of care in many solid and hematologic malignancies. Due to their specific profile of action, their toxicity is significantly different from the adverse events of classic chemotherapy. IrAE are defined as the unique toxicity associated with the toxicity of checkpoint blockade [69]. They can be observed in about 70–90% of patients treated with ICIs [70].

With the increasing and widespread use of PD-1/PD-L1 axis inhibitors, oncologists are facing the challenge of dealing with the symptoms of overactivity of the immune system. It should be remembered that these complications often overlap with the symptoms of coexisting chronic diseases or include the occurrence of several different adverse events on the part of individual systems and organs.

The diagnosis and treatment of complications requires a special approach and specialist management. When starting the diagnosis of symptoms that have occurred as a result of immunotherapy, their etiology should always be sought and their severity determined before starting treatment. Due to the huge spectrum of adverse events, their treatment requires the cooperation of multi-specialist teams. However, patients often present in the first instance to their family doctors, who have to make the initial decisions concerning diagnosis and treatment.

Drugs used in the treatment of adverse events include glucocorticosteroids, immunomodulating drugs for which precise procedural standards have been described in the recommendations for their use and management [71]. It should also be noted that because of the effects of immunotherapy and the extended treatment periods, new complications may be expected to arise over time.

Each case of irAE should be assessed according to the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) [72]. Adverse reactions are classified according to 5 grades, depending on the severity of symptoms: grade 1 (G1) for asymptomatic/mild, grade 2 (G2) for moderate, grade 3 (G3) for severe, grade 4 (G4) for life-threatening, and grade 5 (G5) for death. The severity of the symptoms determines any further management in terms of internal medicine and also influences the decision as to whether to continue, suspend, or discontinue further oncological treatment. The most frequent adverse events observed in cancer patients undergoing therapy with ICIs are presented in Table 2 according to their intensity as classified by NCI CTCAE. A more detailed list of AEs and their grading is available at the NCI’s website [72].

Table 2 National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0 (CTCAE) [72]
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Certain tendencies have been observed with regard to the manifestation of individual symptoms. The first to arise are mainly skin symptoms (median 5.4 weeks from treatment initiation), followed by gastrointestinal and liver symptoms (median 7.4 weeks), and endocrine system symptoms (median 12.1 weeks). It should be noted that not all symptoms always occur nor are they of equal intensity. In so far as skin complications are concerned, they arise quite early and are frequent, so too is immunotherapy-associated pneumonia which occurs mostly at the beginning of treatment (median 3.7 weeks), but with much lower frequency and severity (a greater tendency for this complication to occur has been reported in people treated with immunotherapy due to non-squamous cell lung cancer) [73]. In the case of combined anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapy, symptoms of adverse events occur earlier and often with greater intensity (54% of complications in the G3/4 stage vs 16–20% for monotherapy) [69, 70]. The combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab leads to early treatment discontinuation in approximately 30% of patients. During monotherapy with anti-CTLA-4, more irAEs are observed compared to monotherapy with anti-PD-1 [69].

10 Principles for the management of endocrinopathy following immunotherapy

Adverse events arising from the endocrine system are to be expected during the first 3 months of immunotherapy. The prevalence of endocrinopathy has been difficult to determine accurately due to different methods of diagnosis and monitoring used in various clinical trials. Endocrinological disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are depicted in Table 3, and their frequency is presented in Table 4. Polymorphisms in the CTLA-4 gene are responsible for some autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes, and Addison’s disease. Binding of a CTLA-4 inhibitor to specific endothelial cell surface receptors located in the endocrine glands is associated with the initiation and stimulation of an autoimmune response [82]. Clinically significant endocrinopathy occurs in less than 10% of patients treated with CTLA-4 inhibitors, but in patients treated with anti-PD -1/PD-L1, it appears to be higher. In one meta-analysis, the incidence of hypothyroidism was estimated to be 6.6% among treated patients, with a tendency for it to be higher in patients treated with anti-PD-1. Pituitary inflammation is the most common complication associated with anti-CTLA-4 treatment, while disturbances in thyroid function are observed as the most common with anti-PD-1 treatment [83, 84]. With combined treatment (anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1), a higher percentage of hypothyroidism was observed compared to ipilimumab (13.2% vs 3.8%). The prevalence of hypothyroidism in all patients was independent of the type of cancer for which they were treated. Data from the meta-analysis show a significantly lower incidence of hyperthyroidism (2.5%) in all patients, with a lower incidence of ≥G3 irAE (0.1%). Hyperthyroidism was observed more frequently in patients treated with anti-PD1 than with anti-CTLA-4 or anti-PD-L1. The incidence of hyperthyroidism was significantly higher in patients treated with pembrolizumab than with nivolumab (3.8% vs 2.5%). Patients treated with combination therapy experienced this complication more frequently than with ipilimumab. The incidence of pituitary inflammation was estimated to be approximately 1.3% in all patients, but it was more frequent in patients treated for melanoma; toxicity ≥G3 was relatively rare (0.5%). Disturbances in thyroid functioning were related to the dose of ipilimumab and were more common in combined therapy with nivolumab [66].

Table 3 All-grade adverse events of endocrine system origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74,75,76,77,78,79,80,81]
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Table 4 Incidence of all-grade endocrine adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [66, 71, 74,75,76,77,78]
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Manifestations of endocrine inflammatory processes during immune checkpoint blockade usually involve the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, or adrenal glands [85]. Patients should be actively monitored for symptoms of endocrine disease during treatment, but there may be occasions when the patient reports symptoms to their GP. Symptoms to which doctors should be particularly alert include increased heart rate, increased sweating, extreme tiredness or weakness, muscle pain, weight gain or loss, dizziness or fainting, unusual headache, blurred vision, hunger or thirst which differs from the norm, hair loss, feeling cold, and increased frequency of urination. These non-specific symptoms are also the reason why the frequency and severity of irAE is underestimated.

Thyroid function should be monitored prior to each dose of a checkpoint inhibitor. Autoimmune thyroid disease may present as primary hypothyroidism secondary to inflammation of the thyroid gland or hyperthyroidism associated with Graves’ disease. Distinguishing primary thyroid disease from secondary hypothyroidism (usually caused by inflammation of the pituitary gland) is essential for accurate differential diagnosis. Secondary hypothyroidism usually manifests as normal or decreased TSH levels, with low FT4 levels and/or low T3 levels [76].

Acute, painless thyroiditis is the most common thyroid disorder [76]. Although less frequent, persistent primary hyperthyroidism should be treated in accordance with the usual procedures, in keeping with patients not undergoing immunotherapy. Typically, high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) with low levels of free thyroxine (T4) indicate primary hypothyroidism, and low TSH with low free T4 indicates secondary hypothyroidism, which may be due to inflammation of the pituitary gland. Occasionally, thyroiditis with transient hyperthyroidism (low TSH and high free T4) may be followed by more longstanding hypothyroidism (high TSH and low free T4). A patient with primary hypothyroidism usually requires thyroid hormone (levothyroxine) replacement and endocrinological supervision. It is important to distinguish between hypophysitis, which is treated with steroids, from primary hypothyroidism, which is treated with hormone replacement therapy, and from sick euthyroid syndrome (normal TSH, normal free T4, and low T3-triiodothyronine), which does not require treatment. In clinical practice, a sick euthyroid syndrome (low T3) can be observed, which occurs in patients with severe, generalized debility. In the event of secondary hypothyroidism, treatment with levothyroxine should be preceded by supplementation with glucocorticoids to avoid a potential adrenal crisis.

The procedure for detecting abnormal thyroid function during routine tests depends on the type of disturbances found. In the case of an increase in TSH and normal fT4 values in asymptomatic patients, it is recommended that immunotherapy should be continued, while in the case of symptoms of hypothyroidism, it is recommended that thyroxine at TSH >10 μU/l should be introduced. In the case of an increase in TSH and low fT4 values in an asymptomatic patient, it is recommended to continue immunotherapy. If the patient reports symptoms of hypothyroidism, the recommendation is to supplement thyroxine at 0.5–1.5 μg/kg (starting with lower doses in the elderly and those with cardiac burden) and to continue cancer treatment. The detection of elevated fT4 levels in patients with normal TSH values justifies repeating tests and seeking the consultation of an endocrinologist, should abnormal results persist. Most often this is caused by taking L-thyroxine before blood sampling, so it is important that the patient does not take supplementation on the day of the examination.

On the other hand, low levels of fT4 in a patient with normal TSH values may suggest hypopituitarism and requires morning cortisol testing (9:00 am), but discontinuation of immunotherapy is not required until the diagnosis is established. If low TSH levels and low fT4 levels are found before administration of the next dose of immunotherapy, diagnosis for hypopituitarism is mandatory (MRI, morning cortisol determination). An asymptomatic patient with low TSH and elevated fT4 does not require discontinuation of immunotherapy, only the introduction of a thyreostatics and a beta-blocker in case of clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Imaging diagnostics of the thyroid gland and assessment of antibodies for the TSH receptor and anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) are also recommended. Suspending immunotherapy is indicated when the patient is unable to tolerate the symptoms of thyroid hyperactivity.

Fatigue, headache, and muscle weakness can be the clinical manifestations of hypophysitis. Less frequently reported, but also significant, are nausea, anorexia, changes in vision, and changes in mental status. These types of irAE are more common in men and elderly patients, and may occur 6 to 12 weeks after initiation of immunotherapy. The diagnosis of pituitary conditions can be all the more difficult, as a result of using steroid therapy to treat other irAEs, which may mask the symptoms of pituitary inflammation [76].

Diagnosis depends on demonstrating low levels of hormones produced by the pituitary gland. It is worth mentioning that hyponatremia may also occur, as it has been frequently reported in the case of pituitary inflammation during anti-CTLA-4 therapy [86]. Laboratory findings differentiate pituitary gland inflammation from primary adrenal insufficiency (manifested by low cortisol levels or an abnormal cortisol stimulation test and high ACTH) and primary hypothyroidism (manifested by low free T4 and high TSH). The diagnosis of pituitary gland inflammation should also be confirmed radiographically—demonstration of pituitary enlargement in MRI [87]. If pituitary inflammation is suspected, high doses of corticosteroid (1–2 mg/kg prednisone daily) administered in the acute phase may reverse the inflammatory process and prevent the need for long-term hormone therapy [76]. In most patients, however, long-term supplementation of the relevant hormones is necessary due to secondary hypothyroidism which may result in hypophysitis (treated with levothyroxine) or secondary adrenal insufficiency (treated with replacement doses of hydrocortisone—20 mg every morning and 10 mg in the evening) [88].

The most critical endocrinopathy is adrenal insufficiency with symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, muscle aches, abdominal pain, hypotension, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances (hyperkalemia, hyponatremia). Progressive adrenal insufficiency leads to adrenal crisis (weakness, impaired consciousness, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension, tachycardia, and sometimes pyrexia) and is a medical emergency. Should an adrenal crisis be suspected hospitalization is necessary and requires assessment of ACTH secretion followed by intravenous (i.v.) administration of corticosteroids with mineralocorticoid activity. In addition, it is essential to seek the specialist consultation of an endocrinologist, provide aggressive hydration, and ensure that evaluation for sepsis is carried out. In terms of other indications on the endocrinopathy spectrum, secondary adrenal insufficiency (low morning cortisol levels and low/normal ACTH) may also be observed.

It is worth mentioning that there have also been reports of the occurrence of fulminant type 1 diabetes mellitus (diabetes type 1, insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, IDD), which is a rare but serious and sometimes life-threatening complication. Therefore, it is important that physicians caring for patients treated with immunotherapy routinely measure blood glucose levels in their patients [89, 90].

In summary, if non-specific symptoms are encountered during immunotherapy, physicians should consider the possibility that they may signal endocrinopathies or consider specialist endocrinological consultation in order to interpret laboratory test results and guide treatment. A patient with endocrinopathy may require replacement dose steroids rather than the application of high-dose steroids. Asymptomatic endocrinopathies, such as hypothyroidism, do not require interruption or termination of immunotherapy, merely adequate supplementation and monitoring. This distinguishes these types of irAEs from others, because the endocrine organ has already sustained damaged and further immunotherapy will not result in the recurrence of clinical symptoms if the hormones concerned are supplemented. Discontinuation of treatment is only required following episodes of endocrine disruption requiring hospitalization or in the case of life-threatening conditions, e.g., adrenal insufficiency. Endocrinopathies, unlike adverse reactions in other organs/systems, may persist despite interruption or termination of immunotherapy [91]. Most often they are permanent in nature and require lifelong hormone substitution [71].

11 Recommendations for the management of adverse events of gastrointestinal origin

Gastrointestinal complaints resulting from the activation of the immune system due to the use of checkpoint inhibitors are among the most common irAEs. A correlation has been observed between the occurrence of gastrointestinal irAEs in patients treated with combined anti-PD-1/CTLA-4 therapy and extended survival rates [69]. Gastrointestinal disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are summarized in Table 5, and their frequency is listed in Table 6.

Table 5 All-grade adverse events of gastrointestinal origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74,75,76,77,78,79,80,81]
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Table 6 Incidence of all-grade gastrointestinal adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [66, 71, 74,75,76, 78, 92]
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Among the gastrointestinal symptoms, the most common is immune colitis, which can manifest as diarrhea, abdominal pain, appearance of blood in feces, or perforation of the intestine. These symptoms usually manifest between the 5th and 10th week of immunotherapy (median 6–8 weeks from the start of treatment), and the symptoms usually resolve after about 4 weeks [76].

Complications in the form of diarrhea and colitis have been described in patients treated with anti-CTLA-4 antibodies. It has been estimated that diarrhea of varying degrees of severity is very common and occurs in approximately 25–50% of patients, while colitis occurs in 8–22% of those treated with ipilimumab [92]. As the incidence of these complications increases, so does their severity and gastrointestinal toxicity, rising to a level ≥ G3. These complications also constitute the most common reason for stopping treatment [93]. A relationship between the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an increase in the incidence of enterocolitis during treatment with ipilimumab has also been demonstrated [94]. There have been reports of such complications even many months after the cessation of treatment [95]. Combination therapy with nivolumab/ipilimumab is reported to lead to an incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events (diarrhea, colitis) in approximately 50% of patients [66].

In all patients with symptoms of colitis (diarrhea, blood in the stools, abdominal pain), it is necessary to exclude an infectious background to such symptoms; in particular, Clostridium difficile infection should be ruled out. In such cases, symptomatic treatment should be instituted and immunotherapy continued according to clinical indications. However, painkillers should be used with caution as they may mask the symptoms of peritonitis or perforation of the intestines. During anti-CTLA-4 treatment, atypical symptoms of enterocolitis may occur, such as mouth ulcers, fistulas, abscesses, or anal fissures, as well as extra-intestinal changes (joint pain and swelling, skin lesions, hepatitis, pancreatitis). If irAEs are confirmed, the severity of symptoms should be assessed according to CTCAE. Immunotherapy can be continued with the occurrence of irAE G1 symptoms using appropriate symptomatic treatment (drugs to manage diarrhea and oral rehydration). With G2 complications, immunotherapy should be postponed, and steroid medications (e.g., prednisone 1mg/kg/day) may be started. As symptoms improve, gradual withdrawal of steroids and restitution of immunotherapy are indicated. However, if the treatment instituted does not bring clinical improvement after a minimum of 3 days, the recommended procedure for irAE G3/4 symptoms should be instigated. Endoscopic and imaging evaluations of the abdominal cavity (CT, X-ray according to indications) may be helpful in establishing the diagnosis, and it is recommended in the case of persistent G2 and G3/4 diarrhea [92].

Patients with these complications should be treated with methylprednisolone 2mg/kg (or equivalent) once or twice daily. If no improvement occurs within 3–5 days, infliximab should be administered at a dose of 5 mg/kg i.v. [71]; a repeat dose may be necessary after 2 weeks. Infliximab is contraindicated in the presence of intestinal perforation, sepsis, tuberculosis, or NYHA III or IV circulatory failure; therefore, tests to exclude tuberculosis, HIV, and hepatitis A and B should be performed before starting treatment. Alternative drug treatments may include mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or tacrolimus. Long-term immunosuppression requires the inclusion of anti-infection prophylaxis in accordance with general guidelines.

New treatment strategies are also emerging. In one study, an antibody targeted against α4β7 integrin-vedolizumab was used in patients with ICI-induced colitis resistant to steroid therapy and infliximab, and remission was achieved in over 80% of patients [71].

In contrast to treatment with ipilimumab, with therapy relying on anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies, the incidence and severity of gastrointestinal complications was significantly lower and usually occurred within the first 3 months of treatment [96]. A good response to treatment with corticosteroids was also seen more often. Lymphocytic enteritis is more common in patients treated with anti-PD-1, which responds well to oral budesonide treatment [97].

Hepatotoxicity associated with immunotherapy is relatively rare in patients treated with a single drug (5–10% of which only 1–2% are ≥G3). Toxicity increases significantly, however, with combination treatment of ipilimumab with nivolumab (25–30% of which about 15% are ≥G3) [66]. There was also a significant difference in the frequency of hepatotoxicity in patients treated with ipilimumab depending on the dose used (<4% for 3 mg/kg vs 15% for 10 mg/kg) [71].

In melanoma, various combinations of drugs with different mechanisms of action are commonly being tested. One such study with ipilimumab/vemurafenib (a BRAF inhibitor) was discontinued due to significant hepatotoxicity [98].

Hepatitis is usually asymptomatic and is mainly detected by laboratory tests of liver function performed before each administration of immunotherapy.

An increase in liver enzymes and/or bilirubin requires a differential diagnosis considering the potential for alcohol effects, liver metastases, viral infections, or drug interactions. In patients undergoing immunotherapy with G1 hepatic toxicity, it is possible to continue therapy while continuing to monitor liver enzymes. In the event of symptomatic G2 hepatitis, immunotherapy should be withdrawn, and the addition of steroids (prednisone 0.5–1 mg/kg) implemented if, after monitoring transaminases for 3 consecutive days, there is no spontaneous improvement. Any lack of effect following the use of steroids at this dose requires that the dose be increased to 1–2 mg/kg body weight or that it should be administered i.v. An increase in aminotransferases to G3/4 levels means the obligatory termination of immunotherapy and that treatment with high doses of i.v. steroids should be started (2 mg/kg methylprednisolone) followed by dose reduction over the next 4 weeks. If no improvement occurs or there is a recurrence of symptoms, it is possible to use an immunosuppressive drug, e.g., MMF 1g i.v. or 1.5g twice a day orally (p.o.), together with anti-infection prophylaxis. Recently, the efficacy of azathioprine (1–2 mg/kg) has also been reported in the case of failure to achieve remission with the use of glucocorticosteroids or when dose reduction is required [99].

In cases of difficult or unclear symptom etiology, liver biopsy is possible in centers specializing in hepatological diagnostics. The possibility of returning to immunotherapy after the resolution of complications in the G3 stage may be considered in terms of monotherapy, but it is not indicated for the combination of anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1.

Increased levels of pancreatic enzymes, amylase and lipase, have been observed in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, but symptomatic cases of pancreatitis are rare [100]. Radiographic evidence of pancreatitis with elevated enzyme levels should be considered in irAEs, and treatment with glucocorticosteroids should be initiated [76]. Disturbances in pancreatic functioning may give rise to endocrine disorders in the form of hyperglycemia or diabetes.

12 Recommendations for the management of adverse events of respiratory system origin

Respiratory complications in the form of checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP) are observed in a small percentage of patients (2–4%), although severe complications leading to respiratory failure and requiring treatment under intensive care unit (ICU) conditions are extremely rare with anti-PD-1 monotherapy. However, the frequency of such complications is almost doubled in patients treated with anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 combined therapy for melanoma [66]. Respiratory disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are delineated in Table 7, and their frequency is presented in Table 8.

Table 7 All-grade adverse events of respiratory system origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74,75,76,77, 79,80,81]
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Table 8 Incidence of all-grade respiratory adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [66, 74,75,76,77,78,79, 101]
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It should be remembered, however, that respiratory symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath are common, especially in people being treated for lung cancer or with metastatic lung disease. The severity of these symptoms may indicate disease progression, but it may also be a signal that further diagnostic measures are necessary to examine the possibility of complications arising from immunotherapy [77, 102].

Factors increasing the incidence of pulmonary complications in the course of immunotherapy, in addition to the presence of neoplastic changes in the lungs, include previous chest radiotherapy, COPD, advanced age [103], previous cytostatic therapy, symptomatic pneumonia, or combination therapy [77]. There is also a correlation between the incidence of pulmonary complications and the type of cancer [76]. One meta-analysis has shown a significant difference in the incidence of immunotherapy-associated CIP in patients with NSCLC compared to other cancers. CIP was observed in 3.1% of patients with NSCLC compared to 2.0% of patients with melanoma, 1.4% of patients with urothelial cancer, and 0.6% of HNSCC [104]. A better response (in terms of ORR, PFS, and OS) to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy was found in NSCLC patients with irAEs [105]. It is important to note that CIP is the leading cause of death (35–42%) among all fatalities resulting from irAEs [77].

Pneumonitis should be evaluated with imaging (preferably HRCT) and bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), which is the preferred diagnostic option for completing sputum and blood cultures [106].

Microbiological diagnosis should be performed where immunosuppressive treatment is planned with steroids, often at high doses. Treatment of patients whose lesions have been identified only in imaging studies (as a result of limitations due to ground glass opacities, interstitial changes, hypersensitivity) is restricted in terms of postponing immunotherapy and monitoring symptoms every 2–3 days along with control investigations (such as chest X-ray, blood tests for inflammation, or sputum culture). If clinical symptoms appear, such complications are classified as G2 and antibiotic therapy should be started if an infection is suspected. Oral steroids (prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day) may be considered. If, 2 days after starting treatment, no improvement is observed clinically or in laboratory tests, the patient should be treated as having G3 side effects. In this situation, obligatory hospitalization, i.v. steroids (methylprednisolone 2–4 mg/kg/day), and empirical antibiotic therapy are recommended as well as HRCT and bronchoscopy with BAL. If no improvement is observed or the patient’s condition deteriorates during the next 48 h, infliximab or an MMF should be added, depending on hepatic function. At any stage of the treatment, mechanical ventilation should be considered if necessary along with admission to the ICU.

13 Recommendations for the management of adverse events of musculoskeletal and rheumatological origin

Rheumatological complications are among the rarest and are observed in only 5–10% of patients [107]. However, they are more often associated with treatment using anti-PD-1 antibodies [77]. During treatment, patients may report rheumatic symptoms, which often mimic those of rheumatic diseases (including polymyalgic rheumatic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis, myositis, vasculitis, sarcoidosis, lupus) [108]. Rheumatological and musculoskeletal disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are listed in Table 9, and their frequency is listed in Table 10.

Table 9 All-grade adverse events of musculoskeletal and rheumatological origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74, 77,78,79,80,81]
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Table 10 Incidence of all-grade musculoskeletal and rheumatological adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [66, 78, 80, 101]
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The symptoms are often vague and infrequently reported as separate entities. However, in patients with a previous diagnosis of autoimmune disease, exacerbations are observed during immunotherapy [109]. NSAIDs are most commonly used in the treatment of mild to moderate rheumatic complications. In cases of limited symptom severity, intra-articular administration of steroids has been used, and in the case of greater severity, glucocorticosteroids and DMARDs have been administered.

Sicca syndrome has also been reported and observed in patients receiving checkpoint inhibitors. Symptoms develop most often within the first 3 months of treatment, often presenting suddenly with a dry mouth. Biopsy of the salivary gland shows signs of inflammation, but the picture differs from that in Sjogren’s syndrome. Glucocorticosteroids are used in the treatment, but symptoms often persist despite termination of immunotherapy [110,111,112].

14 Recommendations for the management of adverse events of urinary system origin

Nephrotoxicity is one of the rarer complications associated with immunotherapy. Additionally, using established scales for the assessment of renal function is difficult, due to differences in the parameters assessed, e.g., between the NCI CTCAE criteria and the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) acute kidney injury (AKI) classification. Hence, the decrease in eGFR is often difficult to detect [113]. Initially, renal complications were observed only in patients receiving ipilimumab (3.4%) [114]. However, these complications have also been reported in patients treated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors [115, 116]. A higher incidence of renal side effects has been observed with combined anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy with anti-CTLA-4 at a rate of up to 5% [117, 118]. Disorders from urinary system, resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs, are depicted in Table 11, and their frequency is presented in Table 12.

Table 11 All-grade adverse events of urinary system origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74, 76, 77, 79,80,81]
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Table 12 Incidence of all-grade urinary adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [74, 76, 78, 79, 81]
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The most common forms of renal irAEs are acute kidney injury (AKI), which resembles drug-induced tubulointerstitial nephritis, and proteinuria [119], which can be seen from 1 to 8 months after starting treatment. Delayed reaction differentiates drug-induced toxicity, e.g., NSAIDs [113].

The diagnosis is most often made in the course of routine tests prior to the administration of subsequent doses of immunotherapy. AKI symptoms emerge much later than is usual for the drugs that normally cause kidney failure [118].

Treatment should be carried out under the watchful eye of a nephrologist, and in some cases, it would seem advisable to consider a kidney biopsy, where acute tubulointerstitial nephritis is the most common finding. In the event of G2 complications, immunotherapy should be discontinued until symptoms decrease to G1. Treatment usually involves glucocorticosteroids [76], administered orally if symptoms persist for more than a week. In G3/4, high doses of glucocorticosteroids should be used, under the supervision of a nephrologist. In the case of G3 complications, where a good treatment effect is obtained against the neoplasm, resumption of immunotherapy may be considered when reduction/resolution of toxicity is obtained.

15 Recommendations for the management of adverse events of cardiovascular origin

Cardiovascular complications associated with the use of checkpoint immunotherapy are as yet largely unexplored and rare, but when they do occur, are a serious complication of treatment, often constituting a life-threatening emergency. Cardiotoxicity has been observed in the form of myocarditis and pericarditis [120], Takotsubo syndrome, arrhythmias, and vasculitis. So far, only a few such cases have been described in the literature; hence, the frequency of occurrence, predictors, and treatment are not well established. The observations to date indicate that cardiotoxicity may be one of the greatest causes of mortality among irAEs [77]. One study analyzing 88 cases found that irAEs of cardiovascular origin are characterized by elevated levels of troponins and non-specific changes in the ECG [121], which confirms the importance of performing coronary angiography during the diagnosis of cardiotoxicity associated with immunotherapy. Cardiovascular disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are listed in Table 13, and their frequency is showed in Table 14.

Table 13 All-grade adverse events of cardiovascular origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71,74, 75, 77,78,79,80]
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Table 14 Incidence of all-grade cardiovascular adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [74, 75, 78,79,80]
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In the diagnosis of irAEs presenting in the form of cardiovascular disorders it would appear justified to use the following methods of investigation: determination of troponin levels, ECG, echocardiogram, angiography, CT, MRI, or coronary angiography. In studies on mice, it was observed that factors affecting the CTLA-4 and PD-1 axis were associated with the occurrence of autoimmune myocarditis and, consequently, the development of dilated cardiomyopathy [122, 123]. Preclinical models in patients have also indicated that maintaining proper functioning of the heart muscle is dependent on immunological checkpoints [124]. It has even been proposed that “Most cardiotoxic effects appear to be of an inflammatory nature” [125].

Myocarditis occurs in approximately 0.27–1.14% of patients. Symptoms may be typical of myocarditis, or they may resemble symptoms of acute heart failure, or arrhythmias [126], and appear within the first 30 days (median value) of therapy, often after just the first dose [127]. The risk is greater with a combined anti-PD-1/anti-CTLA-4 (at 2.4%) [128].

The irAE spectrum also includes pericarditis or temporal arteritis accompanied by the risk of blindness [127].

It is advisable that patients should be examined in cardio-oncology centers [129], because early diagnosis and the use of appropriate treatment methods can help to reduce mortality from these adverse side effects, estimated at approximately 50% [121]. This is extremely important because myocarditis appears early following the initiation of immunotherapy and is characterized by a malignant course. Improvement in the condition of patients has been observed after the use of high doses of steroids. Therefore, caring for such patients requires experienced medical personnel [120].

16 Recommendations for the management of adverse events of hematological origin

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia has been reported in a patient treated with nivolumab. Other complications include red blood cell aplasia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, hemophilia A, multidysplastic syndrome, fatal anaplastic anemia, and immune thrombocytopenic purpura [77]. Significant improvement was observed after discontinuation of immunotherapy and introduction of glucocorticosteroids. The most common hematological adverse events are described in Table 15, and their frequency is presented in Table 16.

Table 15 All-grade adverse events from hematological origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74,75,76,77,78,79,80]
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Table 16 Incidence of all-grade hematological adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 101]
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17 Recommendations for the management of adverse events affecting the skin

Skin complications are earliest to appear and the most common adverse reactions in connection with immunotherapy in patients treated with anti-CTLA-4 (reported in approximately 45–65% of patients treated with ipilimumab) and anti-PD1 (approximately 30–40% treated with anti-PD-1/PD-L1: nivolumab/pembrolizumab) [130, 131]. IrAEs that arose from ipilimumab appeared within 12 weeks of starting treatment [91]. Combined therapy with ipilimumab/nivolumab resulted in the occurrence of adverse events affecting the skin in over 70% of treated patients, G3/4 occurring in approximately 20% of patients [132]. Dermal toxicity in the case of anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 antibodies was manifested earlier and took a longer and more severe course [133]. Itching was the most frequently reported symptom during treatment, which was associated with maculopapular rash or with normal-looking skin [77]. Dermatological disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are delineated in Table 17, and their frequency is listed in Table 18.

Table 17 All-grade adverse events of dermatological origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74,75,76,77,78,79,80]
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Table 18 Incidence of all-grade dermatological adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [66, 71, 74,75,76,77,78,79, 81, 130]
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Despite these being the most common side effects, skin lesions are usually of a minor intensity, and complications at the G3/4 degree occur in only about 3% of treated patients [134]. Treatment of severe complications requires dermatological consultation and sometimes also hospitalization.

Patients most often complain of a skin rash (24% with ipilimumab, 15% with anti-PD-1 and 40% with a combination of these two agents), pruritus (30% with ipilimumab, 15% with anti-PD-1, and about 33% with combination treatment), and vitiligo (about 8% with anti-PD-1, rarely with ipilimumab) [130]. Interestingly, one study showed a significant relationship between the occurrence of vitiligo and the clinical response to treatment. This symptom was much more common in patients treated with immunotherapy due to skin melanoma than in patients treated with other neoplasms, such as kidney or lung cancer [135]. A similar correlation with skin rash was also observed in later studies in patients treated with nivolumab in whom there was a good response to treatment with improved ORR and extended OS [136].

Other less frequently reported symptoms related to immunotherapy are photosensitivity, alopecia areata, xerosis cutis, or stomatitis. There have been reports of exacerbation of psoriasis during immunocompetent therapy [137].

In patients undergoing immunotherapy, who report skin-related concerns allegedly caused by treatment, it is essential, first of all, to exclude other possible causes, such as infection, the effect of other drugs, or the influence of other conditions, taking into account general symptoms (fever, lymphadenopathy), and if necessary, perform any necessary investigations. This is to eliminate potential dermatological emergencies such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis (Sweet syndrome), or drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). Immunotherapy is contraindicated in these conditions, and further treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a dermatologist or in a hospital environment. Treatment with high doses of steroids is required (e.g., methylprednisolone 2 mg/kg once or twice a day i.v., with a gradual reduction of the dose over 4 weeks as improvement occurs). However, if skin lesions are diagnosed as G1 complications, treatment with antihistamines, local treatment of pruritus, continuation of immunotherapy, and the use of emollients are advised. In the case of complications at the G2 stage, topical glucocorticoids should be used, and if there is no improvement, oral prednisone at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day or an equivalent dose, with a gradual reduction of the dose over 4 weeks as improvement is achieved, is recommended. Immunotherapy may be continued. Where skin lesions cover more than 30% of the body surface area (BSA) and symptoms significantly affect daily functioning (G3), the recommended treatment is to use high doses of glucocorticosteroids p.o. (prednisolone 1 mg/kg) or i.v. (methylprednisolone 2 mg/kg daily for several days), followed by dose reduction over 4 weeks. Immunotherapy should be suspended until symptoms resolve, or their intensity is reduced to at least G1.

In summary, the occurrence of G3 irAEs, after achieving remission, allows for the continuation of immunotherapy, while non-G3 adverse events often require termination of treatment with checkpoint inhibitors. The occurrence of severe complications at G4 often requires specialist treatment in a dermatology department and leads to termination of immunotherapy.

18 Recommendations for the management of adverse events of nervous system origin

Assessment of the incidence of neurological complications is made difficult by the presence of paraneoplastic syndromes in patients treated for lung cancer but also because in some studies, lymphocytic pituitary inflammation was included in this group of complications, and which, due to its influence on hormonal function, and treatment should preferably be included with endocrine complications. Nevertheless, the frequency of irAEs related to the nervous system is estimated at about 4% of patients treated with ipilimumab and 6% of patients treated with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies. In the case of a combination of these two drugs, the frequency of symptoms increases to approximately 12%. Neurological disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are summarized in Table 19, and their frequency is depicted in Table 20.

Table 19 All-grade adverse events of nervous system origin in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74, 76, 77, 79,80,81]
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Table 20 Incidence of all-grade neurological adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [74, 78,79,80,81]
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Adverse neurological symptoms most often appear between the 6th and 8th week of therapy and are relatively mild. In the main, they consist of headache, dizziness, or taste disturbances. Neurological disorders in the field of peripheral nervous system dysfunction occur rarely, but serious complications such as acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (Guillain-Barre Syndrome), severe forms of myasthenia gravis, or peripheral polyneuropathy usually require treatment with long-term steroid therapy and in the case of resistance to such treatment, immunoglobulins, plasmapheresis, or immunosuppressants (e.g. azathioprine) may be used, which will usually require the involvement of a neurologist [138,138,140].

Serious neurological disorders have been observed with the use of vemurafenib after treatment with anti-PD-1 drugs [141].

19 Recommendations for the management of adverse events affecting the vision system

Ocular complications are extremely rare and can be observed in fewer than 1% of patients. They may appear both in the first weeks of therapy and later [142]. Ocular complications include uveitis, episcleritis, iritis, and conjunctivitis. Uveitis is a serious complication, which manifests itself as visual impairment. In such cases, it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist to initiate treatment and to discontinue immunotherapy (often permanent discontinuation). Topical preparations can be used in the case of local adverse events such as dryness. Ocular disorders resulting from treatment of cancer patients with ICIs are listed in Table 21, and their frequency is presented in Table 22. Patients previously treated with BRAF/MEK inhibitors, in whom an accumulation of adverse events may be observed, require special attention.

Table 21 All-grade ocular adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [71, 74, 76,77,78,79,80,81]
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Table 22 Incidence of all-grade ocular adverse events in cancer patients treated with ICI [76, 78, 80, 101]
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20 Conclusions

The treatment of cancer patients with immune checkpoint inhibitors has undoubtedly been a significant breakthrough in the field of oncology in recent years. The possibility of blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint provided an opportunity for achieving treatment results that could not have been envisaged with standard chemotherapy. The use of ICIs will steadily increase with the implementation of new indications, their administration at earlier stages of cancer (neoadjuvant, adjuvant treatment), and simply because such therapy will become more affordable. New avenues based on concepts utilizing yet unexploited anticancer treatments combining ICIs with targeted therapies, eg. antiangiogenic modalities have become available. With the expansion of the use of checkpoint inhibitors, it is also to be expected that doctors will be faced ever increasingly with having to manage the adverse events associated with these drugs. New treatment options pose new challenges not only for oncologists but also for specialists in other clinical fields, as well as for general practitioners. They also endorse the need for taking a holistic approach to the patient, a principle that is widely recognized in oncology. This is especially important because of the wide variety of organ complications that may affect patients treated with the expanding use of immunotherapy. It should be borne in mind that although serious and life-threatening complications are rare, patients will report systemic or organ symptoms of varying severity. The basis for any management procedure is to provide appropriate patient education and ensure multidisciplinary cooperation and adherence to diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations. Knowledge and awareness of the spectrum of adverse events accompanying immunotherapy will allow doctors to better qualify patients for treatment, prevent complications, correctly recognize, and ultimately treat them. Most of the general symptoms will be reported to general practitioners, as they may appear even after the termination of treatment and do not always proceed in line with disease progression. Specialists in various fields, e.g., endocrinologists, dermatologists, pulmonologists, and gastroenterologists, will often receive referrals for patients suffering these types of adverse events or will be asked to provide care in cases requiring hospitalization of patients with complications in their field of expertise. In view of these considerations, we believe that there is an urgency for multidisciplinary teams to work together in the treatment of cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy and suffering the consequent adverse events effects of treatment.

Therapeutic management should be adjusted according to the irAEs present. In the presence of G1 complications, immunotherapy may be continued under constant supervision. However, discontinuation of the use of checkpoint inhibitors is recommended in the case of neurological, hematological, and cardiac toxicity. For G2 level complications, treatment should be temporarily discontinued until symptoms resolve to G1 or toxicity resolves. In G3, the administration of immunotherapy should be permanently discontinued, and high doses of glucocorticosteroids are used in the therapy. G4 complications often require hospitalization and systemic treatment [79]. G5 complications are defined as fatal. Hence careful diagnostic procedures and early detection of the complications associated with treatment used are vitally important. As has already been stated, there are standards available for the management of adverse events of immune origin in the form of recommendations of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) in cooperation with American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) [79], European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) [143], and the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) [81].