Hypothalamitis and severe hypothalamic dysfunction associated with anti –programmed cell death ligand 1 antibody treatment

Novel agents targeting immune inhibitory checkpoints, cytotoxic T lymphocyte –associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1), are revolutionising the treatment of many malignancies including urothelial cancers [1]. However, in conjunction with restoring immune activity in the tumour microenvironment, these systemic agents may provoke immune respon ses against a variety of normal tissues including endocrine organs [2]. The observation that immune checkpoint inhibitors can induce hypophysitis is of particular clinical importance.
Source: European Journal of Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Tags: Letter to the Editor Source Type: research