Imaging Features of Toxicities by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: With the increasing use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer therapy radiographic profiling of frequent and serious immune-related adverse events (irAEs) becomes more relevant. This article reviews imaging features of irAEs induced by the anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 antibodies ipilimumab, nivolumab and pembrolizumab. RECENT FINDINGS: Important radiological manifestations are immune-related colitis, hepatitis, pancreatitis, hypophysitis, pneumonitis, arthritis and sarcoid-like lymphadenopathy. Typical imaging features are summarized and compared with other relevant differential diagnoses. SUMMARY: Early diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic decisions are required for a successful treatment of irAEs. In addition to staging and follow-up imaging, identification and monitoring of adverse events becomes an important radiologic aspect in oncologic care.