Review Article
Understanding and Managing Immune-Related Adverse Events Associated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Patients With Advanced Melanoma
Alyona Weinstein,(1) RN, MSN, FNP-BC, Ruth-Ann Gordon,(1) MSN, FNP-BC, OCN®, Mary Kate Kasler,(1) MSN, ACNP-BC, DNP(c), Matthew Burke,(2) MBA, RN, MSN, APRN-BC, Smita Ranjan,(3) MSN, APRN, Jackie Hodgetts,(4) MSc, RN, NMP, Vanessa Reed,(1) MS, AGPCNP-BC, OCN®, Yelena Shames,(1) MSA, ACNP-BC, CNRN, Nana Prempeh-Keteku,(1) MS, ANP-BC, and Karla Lingard,(5) RNBSc (Hons)
Authors’ disclosures of potential conflicts of interest are found at the end of this article.
1) Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA; 2) Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; 3) University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA; 4) Christie Hospital, Manchester, UK; 5) Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK
Alyona Weinstein, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065.
E-mail: weinsta2@mskcc.org
J Adv Pract Oncol 2017;8;58–72 |
https://doi.org/10.6004/jadpro.2017.8.1.5 |
© 2017 Harborside Press®
ABSTRACT
The immune checkpoint inhibitors ipilimumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab represent a substantial improvement in treating advanced melanoma but are associated with adverse events (AEs) likely related to general immunologic enhancement. To ensure that patients receive optimal benefit from these agents, prompt assessment and treatment of AEs are essential. We review the efficacy and safety profiles of these immune checkpoint inhibitors and describe guidelines for managing immune-related AEs. We also present case studies describing the management of toxicities in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. These cases illustrate the importance of collecting a detailed medical history when administering immunotherapy, as this information is necessary to establish baseline, inform monitoring, and determine the etiology of symptoms. Advanced practice nurses and physician assistants are uniquely positioned to educate patients on the early recognition of AEs and have an important role in establishing appropriate monitoring and open dialogue among services.
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