Immune checkpoint inhibitors and cardiovascular toxicity

Clinical characteristics and influencing factors of anti-PD-1/PD-L1-related severe cardiac adverse event: based on FAERS and TCGA databases

Combining the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, we aim to explore the factors that influence anti-programmed cell death protein-1 inhibitors/programmed death-ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) related severe cardiac adverse events (cAEs). We obtained anti-PD-1/PD-L1 adverse event reports from January 2014 to December 2022 from the FAERS database. Disproportionality analysis was performed to find anti-PD-1/PD-L1-related cAEs using the proportional reporting ratio (PRR). We were exploring influencing factors based on multivariate logistic regression analysis. Finally, we utilized a strategy that combines FAERS and TCGA databases to explore the potential immune and genetic influencing factors associated with anti-PD-1/PD-L1-related severe cAEs. Reports of severe cAEs accounted for 7.10% of the overall anti-PD-1/PD-L1 adverse event reports in the FAERS database. Immune-mediated myocarditis (PRR = 77.01[59.77-99.23]) shows the strongest toxic signal. The elderly group (65-74: OR = 1.34[1.23-1.47], ≥ 75: OR = 1.64[1.49-1.81]), male (OR = 1.14[1.05-1.24]), anti-PD-L1 agents (OR = 1.17[1.03-1.33]), patients with other adverse events (OR = 2.38[2.17-2.60]), and the concomitant use of proton pump inhibitor (OR = 1.29[1.17-1.43]), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (OR = 1.17[1.04-1.31]), or antibiotics (OR = 1.24[1.08-1.43]) may increase the risk of severe cAEs. In addition, PD-L1 mRNA (Rs = 0.71, FDR = 2.30 × 10- 3) and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 3 (LRP3) (Rs = 0.82, FDR = 2.17 × 10- 2) may be immune and genetic influencing factors for severe cAEs. Severe cAEs may be related to antigen receptor-mediated signalling pathways. In this study, we found that age, gender, anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents, concomitant other adverse events, concomitant medication, PD-L1 mRNA, and LRP3 may be influencing factors for anti-PD-1/PD-L1-related severe cAEs. However, our findings still require a large-scale prospective cohort validation.

Statins in Mitigating Anticancer Treatment-Related Cardiovascular Disease

Certain anticancer therapies inevitably increase the risk of cardiovascular events, now the second leading cause of death among cancer patients. This underscores the critical need for developing effective drugs or regimens for cardiovascular protection. Statins possess properties such as antioxidative stress, anti-inflammatory effects, antifibrotic activity, endothelial protection, and immune modulation. These pathological processes are central to the cardiotoxicity associated with anticancer treatment. There is prospective clinical evidence confirming the protective role of statins in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated that statins can ameliorate heart and endothelial damage caused by radiotherapy, although clinical studies are scarce. In the animal models of trastuzumab-induced cardiomyopathy, statins provide protection through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifibrotic mechanisms. In animal and cell models, statins can mitigate inflammation, endothelial damage, and cardiac injury induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy-induced cardiotoxicity and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome are associated with uncontrolled inflammation and immune activation. Due to their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, statins have been used to manage CAR-T cell therapy-induced immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome in a clinical trial. However, direct evidence proving that statins can mitigate CAR-T cell therapy-induced cardiotoxicity is still lacking. This review summarizes the possible mechanisms of anticancer therapy-induced cardiotoxicity and the potential mechanisms by which statins may reduce related cardiac damage. We also discuss the current status of research on the protective effect of statins in anticancer treatment-related cardiovascular disease and provide directions for future research. Additionally, we propose further studies on using statins for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in anticancer treatment.

Cardiotoxicity of Anticancer Drugs: Molecular Mechanisms, Clinical Management and Innovative Treatment

With the continuous refinement of therapeutic measures, the survival rate of tumor patients has been improving year by year, while cardiovascular complications related to cancer therapy have become increasingly prominent. Exploring the mechanism and prevention strategy of cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT) remains one of the research hotspots in the field of Cardio-Oncology in recent years. Cardiotoxicity of anticancer drugs involves heart failure, myocarditis, hypertension, arrhythmias and vascular toxicity, mechanistically related to vascular endothelial dysfunction, ferroptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. To address the cardiotoxicity induced by different anticancer drugs, various therapeutic measures have been put in place, such as reducing the accumulation of anticancer drugs, shifting to drugs with less cardiotoxicity, using cardioprotective drugs, and early detection. Due to the very limited treatments available to ameliorate anticancer drugs-induced cardiotoxicity, a few innovations are being shifted from animal studies to human studies. Examples include mitochondrial transplantation. Mitochondrial transplantation has been proven to be effective in in vivo and in vitro experiments. Several recent studies have demonstrated that intercellular mitochondrial transfer can ameliorate doxorubicin(DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity, laying the foundation for innovative therapies in anticancer drugs-induced cardiotoxicity. In this review, we will discuss the current status of anticancer drugs-induced cardiotoxicity in terms of the pathogenesis and treatment, with a focus on mitochondrial transplantation, and we hope that this review will bring some inspiration to you.

Cardiovascular and venous thromboembolism risks in cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors compared to non-users- a multi-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy. This study examines the cardiovascular risks of ICIs compared to non-ICI therapies.

METHODS

Utilizing the Chang Gung Research Database (CGRD) of Taiwan, this retrospective study analyzed 188,225 cancer patients, with 1,737 undergoing ICI treatment from January 1, 2008, to June 30, 2021. Through 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM), we compared specific outcomes between patients treated with ICIs and those who were not. The analysis also accounted for the competing risk of mortality in assessing the results after PSM. The observation period spanned from this index date to whichever came first: the date of the specific outcomes, the last follow-up recorded, or the end date of the study on June 30, 2022.

RESULTS

The study found no significant increase in the risk of cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, heart failure hospitalization, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism in patients treated with ICIs as compared to those receiving non-ICI therapy. Interestingly, ICI treatment was linked to a lower risk of non-fatal stroke (0.27% per year vs. 0.46% per year; subdistribution hazard ratio = 0.59; 95% confidence interval = 0.35-0.98; P = 0.0430). Furthermore, subgroup analysis revealed that the ICI group had a decreased risk of cardiac death in patients with cancers other than head and neck cancer, and a reduced risk of stroke among diabetic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

ICIs do not significantly elevate the risk of cardiovascular events in cancer patients and may lower the stroke risk, underscoring the need for additional prospective studies to clarify these findings.

Cancer and Heart Failure: Dangerous Liaisons

Cancer and heart failure (HF) are increasingly relevant worldwide, both from an epidemiologic and clinical point of view. This review aims to explore the relationship between cancer and HF by underscoring risk factors and disclosing the cardiotoxic effects of the current chemotherapy agents. We also deal with the current evidence on the diagnosis and management of HF related to cancer therapy. Finally, we will address the main gaps in knowledge and future perspectives in this field.

Takotsubo syndrome as an outcome of the use of checkpoint inhibitor therapy in patients with COVID-19

Takotsubo Syndrome (TS) is a heart disease caused by extreme exposure of the body to physical or psychological stress. In the context of COVID-19, the virus can be a significant source of stress, with particular attention being paid to the cytokine storm as a cause of damage to the body. New research shows that the production of specific cytokines is linked to the activation of immune checkpoint proteins such as PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4 on T cells. Although initially beneficial in combating infections, it can suppress defense and aid in disease progression. Therefore, checkpoint inhibitor therapy has been highlighted beyond oncological therapies, given its effectiveness in strengthening the immune system. However, this treatment can lead to excessive immune responses, inflammation, and stress on the heart, which can cause Takotsubo Syndrome in patients. Several studies investigate the direct link between this therapy and cardiac injuries in these patients, which can trigger TS. From this perspective, we must delve deeper into this treatment and consider its effects on the prognosis against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Pembrolizumab-Induced Myasthenia Gravis With Myocarditis in the Setting of Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) like pembrolizumab are increasingly used for treating renal cell carcinoma (RCC), offering benefits such as enhanced specificity and activation of immunological memory. However, ICIs can lead to immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including rare but serious neurologic consequences such as myasthenia gravis (MG). We present a case of pembrolizumab-induced MG with concurrent orbital myositis and myocarditis. A 69-year-old male with a history of pT3aN1 kidney cancer presented with abdominal pain, night sweats, and weight loss. Initial imaging revealed a retroperitoneal mass and a thyroid mass, and a biopsy confirmed papillary RCC. The patient began neoadjuvant therapy with pembrolizumab and axitinib. Three weeks post-initiation, he developed dysphagia, ptosis, and proptosis, which progressed with each pembrolizumab infusion. Hospitalization was required after the third cycle due to bilateral ptosis, heart block, and elevated troponins. Despite initial steroid treatment, symptoms persisted. Diagnoses of ICI-related MG (irMG) and myocarditis were established, and treatment included cessation of pembrolizumab, high-dose steroids, IVIGs, and a pacemaker for heart block. Post-discharge, the patient showed a slight improvement in ptosis but persistent dysphagia. MG induced by ICIs is a rare but severe complication with rapid onset and progression, often presenting with bulbar involvement and a significant risk of respiratory failure. The therapeutic regimen for our patient, including high-dose methylprednisolone and IVIG, aligns with current recommendations. This case underscores the importance of recognizing cardiac irAEs like myocarditis in patients on ICIs, as early intervention can significantly affect outcomes. Despite therapeutic interventions, complete resolution of irMG symptoms is rare, and persistent sequelae are common. This case highlights the critical need for vigilant monitoring and prompt management of neurologic and cardiac irAEs in patients undergoing ICI therapy. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for MG and myocarditis to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

Adverse cardiac events of hypercholesterolemia are enhanced by sitagliptin in sprague dawley rats

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects millions worldwide and is the leading cause of death among non-communicable diseases. Western diets typically comprise of meat and dairy products, both of which are rich in cholesterol (Cho) and methionine (Met), two well-known compounds with atherogenic capabilities. Despite their individual effects, literature on a dietary combination of the two in the context of CVD are limited. Therefore, studies on the combined effects of Cho and Met were carried out using male Sprague Dawley rats. An additional interest was to investigate the cardioprotective potential of sitagliptin, an anti-type 2 diabetic drug. We hypothesized that feeding a dietary combination of Cho and Met would result in adverse cardiac effects and would be attenuated upon administration of sitagliptin.

METHODS

Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either a control (Con), high Met (1.5%), high Cho (2.0%), or high Met (1.5%) + high Cho (2.0%) diet for 35 days. They were orally gavaged with an aqueous preparation of sitagliptin (100 mg/kg/d) or vehicle (water) from day 10 through 35. On day 36, rats were euthanized, and tissues were collected for analysis.

RESULTS

Histopathological evaluation revealed a reduction in myocardial striations and increased collagen deposition in hypercholesterolemia (HChol), responses that became exacerbated upon sitagliptin administration. Cardiac pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic responses were adversely impacted in similar fashion. The addition of Met to Cho (MC) attenuated all adverse structural and biochemical responses, with or without sitagliptin.

CONCLUSIONS

Adverse cardiac outcomes in HChol were enhanced by the administration of sitagliptin, and such effects were alleviated by Met. Our findings could be significant for understanding or revisiting the risk-benefit evaluation of sitagliptin in type 2 diabetics, and especially those who are known to consume atherogenic diets.

Risk factors and outcomes of pericardial effusion in cancer patients receiving PD-1 inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors can induce various adverse reactions associated with immunity, of which cardiotoxicity is a serious complication. Limited research exists on the link between PD-1 inhibitor use and pericardial effusion (PE) occurrence and outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University from 2017 to 2019, comparing cancer patients who developed PE within 2 years after PD-1 inhibitor therapy to those who did not. Our primary outcome was the all-cause mortality rate at one year. We applied the Kaplan-Meier method for survival analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to identify PE risk factors, adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 91 patients were finally included, of whom 39 patients had PE. Compared to non-PE group, one-year all-cause mortality was nearly 5 times higher in PE group (64.10% vs. 13.46%, P < 0.001). Patients who developed PE within 2 years of taking PD-1 inhibitors were significantly associated with increased all-cause mortality compared with those who did not (HR: 6.26, 95%CI: 2.70-14.53, P < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression showed that use of sintilimab (OR: 14.568, 95%CI: 3.431-61.857, P < 0.001), history of lung cancer (OR: 15.360, 95%CI: 3.276-72.017, P = 0.001), and history of hypocalcemia (OR: 7.076, 95%CI: 1.879-26.649, P = 0.004) were independent risk factors of PE development in patients received PD-1 inhibitors therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In cancer patients receiving PD-1 inhibitors, PE was associated with higher one-year mortality. Use of sintilimab, and history of lung cancer or hypocalcemia were linked to PE occurrence.

An autopsy case of lung adenocarcinoma with immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced pneumonia and fulminant myocarditis following pembrolizumab administration: a case report

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are the current standard of care for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Myocarditis is a rare but serious immune-related adverse event (irAE) associated with ICI therapy. We present a patient who received a single dose of pembrolizumab for NSCLC and developed ICI-associated pneumonia. Although pneumonia improved with corticosteroid therapy, the patient subsequently developed ICI-associated fulminant myocarditis. Despite high-dose corticosteroid therapy, the patient died on day 30 after pembrolizumab initiation. Even if an observed irAE was effectively treated, clinicians should remain vigilant for other irAEs, especially those that are difficult to control with low-dose corticosteroids.

The incidence and relative risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and hypertension in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors plus tyrosine-kinase inhibitors for solid tumors: a systemic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) can be responsible for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). We performed a meta-analysis to assess the relative risk (RR) of MACEs and hypertension in cancer patients treated with ICI+TKI combinations.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We selected prospective trials through MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ASCOMeeting abstracts. We calculated combined ORs, RRs, and 95% CIs using RevMansoftware for meta-analysis (v.5.2.3).

RESULTS

Seven studies were selected for the analysis of MACEs (3849 patients). The incidence MACEs were 0.8% with ICI+TKI combinations, compared to 0.2% in the control arms for both any- and high-grade. ICI+TKI combinations significantly increased the risk of any- (OR = 3.21; p = 0.01) and high-grade MACEs (OR = 2.72; p = 0.05). Ten studies were selected for the analysis of hypertension (5744 patients). The incidence of treatment-related hypertension of any-grade and high-grade was41.3% (vs. 20.8%) and 26.1% (vs. 12.3%) with ICI+TKI combinations, respectively. ICI+TKI combinations significantly increased the risk of treatment-related hypertension of any-grade (RR = 2.10; p = 0.001), but not of high-grade (p = 0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

ICI+TKI combinations increase the risk of MACEs compared to controls, although the absolute incidence is eventually low. Routine cardiovascular monitoring in asymptomatic patients is therefore not recommended.

Predicting oncology drug-induced cardiotoxicity with donor-specific iPSC-CMs-a proof-of-concept study with doxorubicin

Many oncology drugs have been found to induce cardiotoxicity in a subset of patients, which significantly limits their clinical use and impedes the benefit of lifesaving anticancer treatments. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) carry donor-specific genetic information and have been proposed for exploring the interindividual difference in oncology drug-induced cardiotoxicity. Herein, we evaluated the inter- and intraindividual variability of iPSC-CM-related assays and presented a proof of concept to prospectively predict doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC) using donor-specific iPSC-CMs. Our findings demonstrated that donor-specific iPSC-CMs exhibited greater line-to-line variability than the intraindividual variability in impedance cytotoxicity and transcriptome assays. The variable and dose-dependent cytotoxic responses of iPSC-CMs resembled those observed in clinical practice and largely replicated the reported mechanisms. By categorizing iPSC-CMs into resistant and sensitive cell lines based on their time- and concentration-related phenotypic responses to DOX, we found that the sensitivity of donor-specific iPSC-CMs to DOX may predict in vivo DIC risk. Furthermore, we identified a differentially expressed gene, DND microRNA-mediated repression inhibitor 1 (DND1), between the DOX-resistant and DOX-sensitive iPSC-CMs. Our results support the utilization of donor-specific iPSC-CMs in assessing interindividual differences in DIC. Further studies will encompass a large panel of donor-specific iPSC-CMs to identify potential novel molecular and genetic biomarkers for predicting DOX and other oncology drug-induced cardiotoxicity.

Chemotherapy Related Cardiotoxicity Evaluation-A Contemporary Review with a Focus on Cardiac Imaging

The long-term survivorship of patients diagnosed with cancer has improved due to accelerated detection and rapidly evolving cancer treatment strategies. As such, the evaluation and management of cancer therapy related complications has become increasingly important, including cardiovascular complications. These have been captured under the umbrella term "cardiotoxicity" and include left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure, acute coronary syndromes, valvular abnormalities, pericardial disease, arrhythmia, myocarditis, and vascular complications. These complications add to the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or are risk factors patients with cancer treatment are presenting with. Of note, both pre- and newly developing CVD is of prognostic significance, not only from a cardiovascular perspective but also overall, potentially impacting the level of cancer therapy that is possible. Currently, there are varying recommendations and practices regarding CVD risk assessment and mitigating strategies throughout the cancer continuum. This article provides an overview on this topic, in particular, the role of cardiac imaging in the care of the patient with cancer. Furthermore, it summarizes the current evidence on the spectrum, prevention, and management of chemotherapy-related adverse cardiac effects.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced cardiotoxicity in patients with lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for the treatment of lung cancer may precipitate cardiotoxic events. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the cardiotoxicity associated with ICIs in patients with lung cancer.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted across four electronic databases (Cochrane CENTRAL, MEDLINE, OVID EMBASE and Google Scholar) from inception through 31st May 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the impact of ICIs on cardiac outcomes in lung cancer patients were considered for inclusion. Risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled and analysis was performed using a random-effects model. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was followed to assess confidence in the estimates of effect (i.e., the quality of evidence).

RESULTS

A total of 30 studies including 16,331 patients, were included in the analysis. Pooled results showed that single ICI (RR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.13-4.12; p = 0.02; I2 = 0%) or a combination of single ICI plus chemotherapy (RR: 1.38 [1.05-1.82]; p = 0.02) significantly increased the risk of cardiac adverse events when compared with chemotherapy alone. No significant difference was noted when a dual ICI (RR: 0.48 [0.13-1.80]; p = 0.27) was compared with single ICI. In addition, there was no significant association between the use of ICIs and incidence of cardiac failure (RR: 1.11 [0.48-2.58]; p = 0.80), or arrhythmia (RR: 1.87; [0.69-5.08]; p = 0.22).

CONCLUSION

Compared with chemotherapy alone, use of a single ICI or a combination of single ICI plus chemotherapy significantly increased the risk of cardiotoxicity. However, employing dual immunotherapy did not result in a significant increase in the risk of cardiotoxicity when compared to the use of a single ICI.

Autoimmune Myocarditis, Old Dogs and New Tricks

Autoimmunity significantly contributes to the pathogenesis of myocarditis, underscored by its increased frequency in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and polymyositis. Even in cases of myocarditis caused by viral infections, dysregulated immune responses contribute to pathogenesis. However, whether triggered by existing autoimmune conditions or viral infections, the precise antigens and immunologic pathways driving myocarditis remain incompletely understood. The emergence of myocarditis associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, commonly used for treating cancer, has afforded an opportunity to understand autoimmune mechanisms in myocarditis, with autoreactive T cells specific for cardiac myosin playing a pivotal role. Despite their self-antigen recognition, cardiac myosin-specific T cells can be present in healthy individuals due to bypassing the thymic selection stage. In recent studies, novel modalities in suppressing the activity of pathogenic T cells including cardiac myosin-specific T cells have proven effective in treating autoimmune myocarditis. This review offers an overview of the current understanding of heart antigens, autoantibodies, and immune cells as the autoimmune mechanisms underlying various forms of myocarditis, along with the latest updates on clinical management and prospects for future research.

Use of new and emerging cancer drugs: what the cardiologist needs to know

The last decade has witnessed a paradigm shift in cancer therapy, from non-specific cytotoxic chemotherapies to agents targeting specific molecular mechanisms. Nonetheless, cardiovascular toxicity of cancer therapies remains an important concern. This is particularly relevant given the significant improvement in survival of solid and haematological cancers achieved in the last decades. Cardio-oncology is a subspecialty of medicine focusing on the identification and prevention of cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT). This review will examine the new definition of CTR-CVT and guiding principles for baseline cardiovascular assessment and risk stratification before cancer therapy, providing take-home messages for non-specialized cardiologists.

Cardiovascular comorbidities and their prognostic value in small cell lung cancer patients with chemoradiotherapy

BACKGROUND

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an extremely malignant subtype of lung cancer because of its high potential for metastases. Cardiac invasion of SCLC is a serious concern that may lead to systemic embolism or tract obstruction. It has aroused much concern that cardiovascular comorbidities may significantly affect the survival of SCLC patients and their treatment decisions.

METHODS

We consecutively recruited 772 small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients between January 2011 and December 2018 from 4 cancer specialty hospitals in China. Only newly diagnosed primary cancer inpatients were included. Univariable and multivariable adjusted Cox proportional hazard models were conducted to evaluate the risk factors associated with mortality. Hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) was 34.6% in all SCLC patients. Log-rank analysis presented statistically significant differences in median survival time (MST) between patients with CVD and without CVD in all SCLC patients (9.0 months vs. 15.0 months, P = 0.005) and patients with chemotherapy only (12.0 months vs. 18.0 months, P = 0.048). Pericardial effusion (HR 1.671, 95% CI 1.082-2.580, P = 0.021) and heart failure (HR 1.752, 95% CI 1.290-2.379, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors associated with mortality in all SCLC patients. VTE is related to poorer prognosis in patients with chemotherapy only (HR 5.558, 95% CI 1.335-23.135, P = 0.018) and chemoradiotherapy (HR 3.057, 95% CI 1.270-7.539, P = 0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

Comprehensive management of CVD comorbidities is of vital importance for the long-term prognosis of SCLC patients.

Prognostic value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance in immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated myocarditis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are increasingly used in the first-line treatment of malignant tumors. There is increasing recognition of their cardiotoxicity and, in particular, their potential to lead to myocarditis. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) can quantify pathological changes, such as myocardial edema and fibrosis. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the evidence for the roles of CMR in predicting prognosis in ICI-associated myocarditis.

METHODS

PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched until October 2023 for published works investigating the relationship between CMR parameters and adverse events in patients with ICI-associated myocarditis. The analysis included studies reporting the incidence of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), T1 values, T2 values, and CMR-derived left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Odds ratios (OR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) were combined for binary and continuous data, respectively. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies.

RESULTS

Five cohort studies were included (average age 65-68 years; 25.4% female). Of these, four studies were included in the meta-analysis of LGE-related findings. Patients with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) had a higher incidence of LGE compared with patients without MACE (OR = 4.18, 95% CI: 1.72-10.19, p = 0.002). A meta-analysis, incorporating data from two studies, showed that patients who developed MACE exhibited significantly higher T1 value (WMD = 36.16 ms, 95% CI: 21.43-50.89, p < 0.001) and lower LVEF (WMD = - 8.00%, 95% CI: -13.60 to -2.40, p = 0.005). Notably, T2 value (WMD = -0.23 ms, 95% CI: -1.86 to -1.39, p = 0.779) was not associated with MACE in patients with ICI-related myocarditis.

CONCLUSIONS

LGE, T1 value, and LVEF measured by CMR imaging have potential prognostic value for long-term adverse events in patients with ICI-related myocarditis.

Cellular Alterations in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy-Related Cardiac Dysfunction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has emerged as a pivotal advancement in cancer treatment, but the widespread adoption has given rise to a growing number of reports detailing significant cardiovascular toxicity. This review concentrates on elucidating the mechanisms behind ICI-related cardiovascular complications, emphasizing preclinical and mechanistic data.

RECENT FINDINGS

Accumulating evidence indicates a more significant role of immune checkpoints in maintaining cardiac integrity than previously understood, and new key scientific data are available to improve our understanding of ICI-related cardiovascular toxicity, including hidden cardiotoxicity. New avenues for innovative concepts are hypothesized, and opportunities to leverage the knowledge from ICI-therapy for pioneering approaches in related scientific domains can be derived from the latest scientific projects. Cardiotoxicity from ICI therapy is a paramount challenge for cardio-oncology. Understanding the underlying effects builds the foundation for tailored cardioprotective approaches in the growing collective at risk for severe cardiovascular complications.

Treatment options for immune-related adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

The immunotherapy revolution with the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) started with the clinical use of the first ICI, ipilimumab, in 2011. Since then, the field of ICI therapy has rapidly expanded - with the FDA approval of 10 different ICI drugs so far and their incorporation into the therapeutic regimens of a range of malignancies. While ICIs have shown high anti-cancer efficacy, they also have characteristic side effects, termed immune-related adverse events (irAEs). These side effects hinder the therapeutic potential of ICIs and, therefore, finding ways to prevent and treat them is of paramount importance. The current protocols to manage irAEs follow an empirical route of steroid administration and, in more severe cases, ICI withdrawal. However, this approach is not optimal in many cases, as there are often steroid-refractory irAEs, and there is a potential for corticosteroid use to promote tumour progression. This review surveys the current alternative approaches to the treatments for irAEs, with the goal of summarizing and highlighting the best attempts to treat irAEs, without compromising anti-tumour immunity and allowing for rechallenge with ICIs after resolution of the irAEs.

Myocarditis: A Rare Complication of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a class of immunotherapy agents that are often used in cancer treatment. A rare but life-threatening complication that can be seen is ICI-induced myocarditis. We discuss a case of pembrolizumab-induced myocarditis and the nuances involved in timely diagnosis and treatment. A 64-year-old female with a past medical history significant for metastatic right-sided colorectal adenocarcinoma undergoing immunotherapy with pembrolizumab presented with worsening shortness of breath and was found to be hypoxic. Initial laboratory analysis was remarkable for troponin of 0.35 ng/mL, which later peaked at 6.01 ng/mL. The electrocardiogram showed non-specific ST segment changes in the anteroseptal leads, and a subsequent echocardiogram revealed severely reduced left ventricular systolic function with an ejection fraction of 25%. Coronary angiography showed non-obstructive coronary arteries. As the patient was on pembrolizumab immunotherapy for cancer, there was high suspicion of ICI-induced myocarditis, and the patient was started empirically on steroids. Subsequently, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was done, which confirmed the diagnosis of myocarditis. Pembrolizumab therapy was discontinued, and she was started on guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure. While ICIs have transformed cancer therapy, healthcare providers must be vigilant for immune-related adverse events such as myocarditis. Early recognition, prompt management, and close monitoring are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.

Isolated Pericardial Effusion Without Associated Myocarditis in a Small-Cell Lung Cancer Patient Undergoing Atezolizumab Therapy

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a form of immunotherapy increasingly utilized in cancer therapies. While offering promise in malignancy treatment, ICIs, including atezolizumab, can elicit immune-related adverse events (irAEs) such as cardiotoxicity. We present the case of a 67-year-old male with stage IV metastatic small-cell lung cancer undergoing carboplatin, etoposide, and atezolizumab therapy, who developed pericardial tamponade two months into treatment. Initially presenting with hypoxia on day three of his third treatment cycle, he was admitted due to multifocal pneumonia and subsequently diagnosed with pericardial tamponade stemming from a sizable pericardial effusion. Pericardiocentesis was performed, effectively resolving the tamponade. Infectious etiology was ruled out. Notably, there was no associated myocarditis, as evidenced by negative cardiac markers and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and cytologic analysis of the pericardial fluid did not reveal malignant cells, indicating an isolated immunologic etiology for the pericardial effusion. Following successful management, including oxygen support and a prednisone taper, chemotherapy without immunotherapy was resumed after a one-week delay. This rare case underscores the significance of promptly utilizing multimodality imaging with timely cardiology intervention, a prompt pericardial fluid analysis in diagnosing cardiac irAEs, and management leading to improved patient outcomes.

Complications of immuno-oncology care: what urologist should know

OBJECTIVES

To provide a practical review of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) that may be encountered in uro-oncology patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a literature review of studies reporting irAEs including articles published through September 2023 for uro-oncology patients and the potential relevancy for the practicing urologist.

RESULTS

Immunotherapy has revolutionised cancer treatment, extending its impact to urological malignancies including for patients with urothelial, kidney, and prostate cancers. Immuno-oncology (IO) compounds have achieved measurable and durable responses in these cancers. Urologists, choosing to administer or co-manage IO patient care, should be prepared to understand, evaluate, and treat irAEs. This review discusses the spectrum of irAEs that can be encountered. Ongoing trials are exploring the use of immunotherapy at earlier stages of uro-oncological diseases, thus underscoring the evolving landscape of urological cancer treatment. Paradoxically, some data suggests that the occurrence of irAEs is associated with improved oncological outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Immune-related AEs, while manageable, may be life-threatening and require lifelong therapy. A thorough understanding of AEs and toxicity of a novel drug class is imperative.

Immune-Related Adverse Events Due to Cancer Immunotherapy: Immune Mechanisms and Clinical Manifestations

The landscape of cancer treatment has undergone a significant transformation with the introduction of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs). Patients undergoing these treatments often report prolonged clinical and radiological responses, albeit with a potential risk of developing immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Here, we reviewed and discussed the mechanisms of action of ICIs and their pivotal role in regulating the immune system to enhance the anti-tumor immune response. We scrutinized the intricate pathogenic mechanisms responsible for irAEs, arising from the evasion of self-tolerance checkpoints due to drug-induced immune modulation. We also summarized the main clinical manifestations due to irAEs categorized by organ types, detailing their incidence and associated risk factors. The occurrence of irAEs is more frequent when ICIs are combined; with neurological, cardiovascular, hematological, and rheumatic irAEs more commonly linked to PD1/PD-L1 inhibitors and cutaneous and gastrointestinal irAEs more prevalent with CTLA4 inhibitors. Due to the often-nonspecific signs and symptoms, the diagnosis of irAEs (especially for those rare ones) can be challenging. The differential with primary autoimmune disorders becomes sometimes intricate, given the clinical and pathophysiological similarities. In conclusion, considering the escalating use of ICIs, this area of research necessitates additional clinical studies and practical insights, especially the development of biomarkers for predicting immune toxicities. In addition, there is a need for heightened education for both clinicians and patients to enhance understanding and awareness.

Drug-induced AF: Arrhythmogenic Mechanisms and Management Strategies

AF is a prevalent condition that is associated with various modifiable and unmodifiable risk factors. Drug-induced AF, despite being commonly under-recognised, can be relatively easy to manage. Numerous cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular agents, including catecholaminergic agents, adenosine, anti-tumour agents and others, have been reported to induce AF. However, the mechanisms underlying drug-induced AF are diverse and not fully understood. The complexity of clinical scenarios and insufficient knowledge regarding drug-induced AF have rendered the management of this condition complicated, and current treatment guidelines follow those for other types of AF. Here, we present a review of the epidemiology of drug-induced AF and highlight a range of drugs that can induce or exacerbate AF, along with their molecular and electrophysiological mechanisms. Given the inadequate evidence and lack of attention, further research is crucial to underscore the clinical significance of drug-induced AF, clarify the underlying mechanisms and develop effective treatment strategies for the condition.

Radiation-induced coronary artery disease during immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy: a case report

Radiation-induced coronary artery disease (RICAD) poses a serious concern for cancer patients post radiotherapy, typically emerging after over a decade. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), known for cardiotoxicity, are increasingly recognized for causing cardiovascular complications. Here we report the case of a 63-year-old man with metastatic lung cancer who developed coronary artery disease during his third-line therapy with an ICI (nivolumab) and an antiangiogenic agent (bevacizumab), 3 years post chest radiotherapy. Angiography revealed relatively isolated stenosis in the left main coronary artery ostium, consistent with the radiotherapy site, with no other risk factors, suggesting RICAD. The potential for ICIs to accelerate RICAD development should be considered and necessitates careful surveillance in patients receiving both radiotherapy and ICIs.

Adverse Cardiac Events of Hypercholesterolemia Are Enhanced by Sitagliptin Administration in Sprague Dawley Rats

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects millions worldwide and is the leading cause of death among non-communicable diseases. Western diets typically comprise of meat and dairy products, both of which are rich in cholesterol (Cho) and methionine (Met), two well-known compounds with atherogenic capabilities. Despite their individual effects, literature on a dietary combination of the two in the context of CVD are limited. An additional interest was to investigate the cardioprotective potential of sitagliptin, an anti-type 2 diabetic drug. Thus, we hypothesized that atherogenic feeding would result in adverse cardiac effects and would attenuate upon sitagliptin administration.

Methods

Six-week-old adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either a control (Con), high Met (1.5%), high Cho (2.0%), or high Met (1.5%) + high Cho (2.0%) diet for 35 days. They were orally gavaged with vehicle (water) or sitagliptin (100 mg/kg/d) from day 10 through 35. On day 36, rats were euthanized, and tissues were collected for analysis.

Results

Histopathological evaluation revealed a reduction in myocardial striations and increased collagen deposition in hypercholesterolemia (HChol), responses that became exacerbated upon sitagliptin administration. Cardiac pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic responses were adversely impacted in similar fashion. The addition of Met to Cho (MC) attenuated all adverse structural and biochemical responses, with or without sitagliptin.

Conclusion

Adverse cardiac outcomes in HChol were enhanced with sitagliptin administration and such effects were alleviated by Met. Our findings could be significant for understanding the risk-benefit of sitagliptin in type 2 diabetics who are known to consume atherogenic diets.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated cardiovascular toxicities: A review

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionary effects on therapeutic strategies for multiple malignancies. Their efficacy depends on their ability to reactivate the host immune system to fight cancer cells. However, adverse reactions to ICIs are common and involve several organs, limiting their use in clinical practice. Although the incidence of cardiovascular toxicity is relatively low, it is associated with serious consequences and high mortality rates. The primary cardiovascular toxicities include myocarditis, pericarditis, Takotsubo syndrome, arrhythmia, vasculitis, acute coronary syndrome, and venous thromboembolism. Currently, the mechanism underlying ICI-associated cardiovascular toxicity remains unclear and underexplored. The diagnosis and monitoring of ICI-associated cardiovascular toxicities mainly include the following indicators: symptoms, signs, laboratory examination, electrocardiography, imaging, and pathology. Treatments are based on the grade of cardiovascular toxicity and mainly include drug withdrawal, corticosteroid therapy, immunosuppressants, and conventional cardiac treatment. This review focuses on the incidence, underlying mechanisms, clinical manifestations, diagnoses, and treatment strategies.

[Heart and cancer: cardio-oncology]

Cardiovascular diseases and cancer have a complex relationship and show a reciprocal linkage and influence. Mutual risk factors, demographic changes and increasing multimorbidity result in an increase in the incidence of both diseases. Advances in oncological and cardiological treatment lead to a further increase in patients with cured or chronic diseases as a relevant comorbidity. The induction of cardiovascular side effects by cancer therapies leads to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. Recent data also show that cardiovascular disease, through various factors, can also promote the development and progression of cancer. An understanding of the interrelationship between cardiovascular diseases and cancer can be seen as a major medical challenge for the future. To this end, scientific, structural, clinical and educational interfaces between cardiology and oncology are essential. This article outlines the complex relationships between cardiovascular diseases and cancer and defines current and future challenges for the best possible care of affected patients.

Cardiovascular events after cancer immunotherapy as oncologic emergencies: Analyses of 610 head and neck cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Cardio-oncology and emergency medicine are closely collaborative, as many cardiac events in cancer patients require evaluation and treatment in the emergency department (ED). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a common treatment for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). However, the immune-related adverse events (irAEs) from ICIs can be clinically significant.

METHODS

We reviewed and analyzed cardiovascular diagnoses among HNC patients who received ICI during the period April 1, 2016-December 31, 2020 in a large tertiary cancer center. Demographics, clinical and cancer-related data were abstracted, and billing databases were queried for cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related diagnosis using International Classification of Disease-version10 (ICD-10) codes. We recorded receipt of care at the ED as one of the outcome variables.

RESULTS

A total of 610 HNC patients with a median follow-up time of 12.3 months (median, interquartile range = 5-30 months) comprised our study cohort. Overall, 25.7% of patients had pre-existing CVD prior to ICI treatment. Of the remaining 453 patients without pre-existing CVD, 31.5% (n = 143) had at least one CVD-related diagnosis after ICI initiation. Tachyarrhythmias (91 new events) was the most frequent CVD-related diagnosis after ICI. The time to diagnosis of myocarditis from initiation of ICI occurred the earliest (median 2.5 months, 1.5-6.8 months), followed by myocardial infarction (3.7, 0.5-9), cardiomyopathy (4.5, 1.6-7.3), and tachyarrhythmias (4.9, 1.2-11.4). Patients with myocarditis and tachyarrhythmias mainly presented to the ED for care.

CONCLUSION

The use of ICI in HNC is still expanding and the spectrum of delayed manifestation of ICI-induced cardiovascular toxicities is yet to be fully defined in HNC survivors.

Drug-induced cardiac toxicity and adverse drug reactions, a narrative review

Drug-induced cardiotoxicity is a primary concern in both drug development and clinical practice. Although the heart is not a common target for adverse drug reactions, some drugs still cause various adverse cardiac events, with sometimes severe consequences. Direct cardiac toxicity encompasses functional and structural changes of the cardiovascular system due to possible exposure to medicines. This phenomenon extends beyond cardiovascular drugs to include non-cardiovascular drugs including anticancer drugs such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, anthracyclines and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), as well as various antipsychotics, venlafaxine, and even some antibiotics (such as macrolides). Cardiac ADRs comprise an array of effects, ranging from heart failure and myocardial ischemia to valvular disease, thrombosis, myocarditis, pericarditis, arrhythmias, and conduction abnormalities. The underlying mechanisms may include disturbances of ionic processes, induction of cellular damage via impaired mitochondrial function, and even hypercoagulability. To mitigate the impact of drug-induced cardiotoxicity, multi-stage evaluation guidelines have been established, following the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines for in vitro and in vivo testing. Despite preclinical safeguards, post-marketing surveillance remains critical, as certain cardiotoxic drugs may escape initial scrutiny. Indeed, historical data show that cardiovascular ADRs contribute to almost 10% of market withdrawals. The impact of drug-induced cardiotoxicity on cardiac issues, particularly heart failure, is often underestimated, with incidence rates ranging from 11.0% to over 20.0%. We here comprehensively examine different patterns of drug-induced cardiotoxicity, highlighting current concerns and emerging pharmacovigilance signals. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and the associated risk factors is critical in order to promptly identify, effectively manage, and proactively prevent drug-induced cardiac adverse events. Collaborative efforts between physicians and cardiologists, coupled with thorough assessment and close monitoring, are essential to ensuring patient safety in the face of potential drug-induced cardiotoxicity.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors break whose heart? Perspectives from cardio-immuno-oncology

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are monoclonal antibody antagonists, which can block cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), programmed death-1/ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) pathways, and other molecules exploited by tumor cells to evade T cell-mediated immune response. ICIs have transformed the treatment landscape for various cancers due to their amazing efficacy. Many anti-tumor therapies, including targeted therapy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, combine ICIs to make the treatment more effective. However, the off-target immune activation caused by ICIs may lead to a broad spectrum of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) affecting multiple organ systems. Among irAEs, cardiotoxicity induced by ICIs, uncommon but fatal, has greatly offset survival benefits from ICIs, which is heartbreaking for both patients and clinicians. Consequently, such cardiotoxicity requires special vigilance, and it has become a common challenge both for patients and clinicians. This article reviewed the clinical manifestations and influence of cardiotoxicity from the view of patients and clinicians, elaborated on the underlying mechanisms in conjunction with animal studies, and then attempted to propose management strategies from a cardio-immuno-oncology multidisciplinary perspective.

Immunotherapy-associated cardiovascular toxicities: insights from preclinical and clinical studies

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a widely accepted and effective treatment for various types of solid tumors. Recent studies suggest that cardiovascular immune-related adverse events (irAEs) specifically have an incidence rate ranging from 1.14% to more than 5%. Myocarditis is the most common observed cardiovascular irAE. Others include arrhythmias, pericardial diseases, vasculitis, and a condition resembling takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) pathway, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) pathway, and the recently discovered lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3) pathway, play a critical role in boosting the body's natural immune response against cancer cells. While ICIs offer significant benefits in terms of augmenting immune function, they can also give rise to unwanted inflammatory side effects known as irAEs. The occurrence of irAEs can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, and can impact the overall clinical efficacy of these agents. This review aims to summarize the underlying mechanisms of cardiovascular irAE from both preclinical and clinical studies for a better understanding of cardiovascular irAE in clinical application.

Single-Site Nanozymes with a Highly Conjugated Coordination Structure for Antitumor Immunotherapy via Cuproptosis and Cascade-Enhanced T Lymphocyte Activity

The extracellular matrix (ECM) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and upregulated immune checkpoints (ICs) on antitumor immune cells impede the infiltration and killing effect of T cells, creating an immunosuppressive TME. Herein, a cholesterol oxidase (CHO) and lysyl oxidase inhibitor (LOX-IN-3) co-delivery copper-dibenzo-[g,p]chrysene-2,3,6,7,10,11,14,15-octaol single-site nanozyme (Cu-DBCO/CL) was developed. The conjugated organic ligand and well-distributed Cu-O4 sites endow Cu-DBCO with unique redox capabilities, enabling it to catalyze O2 and H2O2 to ·O2- and ·OH. This surge of reactive oxygen species (ROS) leads to impaired mitochondrial function and insufficient ATP supply, impacting the function of copper-transporting ATPase-1 and causing dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase oligomerization-mediated cuproptosis. Moreover, multiple ROS storms and glutathione peroxidase 4 depletion also induce lipid peroxidation and trigger ferroptosis. Simultaneously, the ROS-triggered release of LOX-IN-3 reshapes the ECM by inhibiting lysyl oxidase activity and further enhances the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD8+ T cells). CHO-triggered cholesterol depletion not only increases ·OH generation but also downregulates the expression of ICs such as PD-1 and TIM-3, restoring the antitumor activity of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells. Therefore, Cu-DBCO/CL exhibits efficient properties in activating a potent antitumor immune response by cascade-enhanced CD8+ T cell viability. More importantly, ECM remodeling and cholesterol depletion could suppress the metastasis and proliferation of the tumor cells. In short, this immune nanoremodeler can greatly enhance the infiltration and antitumor activity of T cells by enhancing tumor immunogenicity, remodeling ECM, and downregulating ICs, thus achieving effective inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis.

Achilles' Heel of currently approved immune checkpoint inhibitors: immune related adverse events

Immunotherapy has revolutionized the cancer treatment landscape by opening up novel avenues for intervention. As the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has exponentially increased, so have immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The mechanism of irAEs may involve the direct damage caused by monoclonal antibodies and a sequence of immune responses triggered by T cell activation. Common side effects include dermatologic toxicity, endocrine toxicity, gastrointestinal toxicity, and hepatic toxicity. While relatively rare, neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, and pulmonary toxicity can be fatal. These toxicities pose a clinical dilemma regarding treatment discontinuation since they can result in severe complications and necessitate frequent hospitalization. Vigilant monitoring of irAEs is vital in clinical practice, and the principal therapeutic strategy entails the administration of oral or intravenous glucocorticoids (GSCs). It may be necessary to temporarily or permanently discontinue the use of ICIs in severe cases. Given that irAEs can impact multiple organs and require diverse treatment approaches, the involvement of a multidisciplinary team of experts is imperative. This review aims to comprehensively examine the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, incidence, and treatment options for various irAEs.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors - the revolutionary cancer immunotherapy comes with a cardiotoxic price

The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has provided a novel and revolutionary treatment option for previously incurable cancers. However, this major advancement is accompanied by a spectrum of cardiotoxic adverse events that are uncommon but potentially fatal. The oncologic indications of ICIs are becoming increasingly complex, requiring robust clinical monitoring to assess for cardiovascular complications. This is reflected in the recent introduction of the first cardio-oncology guidelines, a sign of the cardiovascular community's recognition that seeks to match this dynamic. The aim of this review is to summarize the cardiac side effects of ICI, with an emphasis on prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment options.

PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors-associated cardiac adverse events: a retrospective and real-world study based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS)

BACKGROUND

Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) inhibitors have reformed the treatment landscape for various malignancies and improved prognosis of patients. However, they also lead to events that although rare may prove to be fatal.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data from July 2014 to June 2022 based on FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) were analyzed. The signal index reporting odds ratio (ROR) was used to evaluate the correlation between cardiac AEs and given medications. The indications and the median time to onset (TTO) of different PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors were compared.

RESULTS

Cardiac AEs are rare but may be fatal with particular profiles in primary tumor, onset time, and especially gender. We identified 11,538 reports that were related to cardiotoxicity of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, in which 178 different preferred terms (PTs) were distinguished, and nivolumab reported the most PTs with signal. All targeted medications showed signals in myocardial disorders and pericardial disorders, which tend to occur in the first 1-2 months. Non-small cell neoplasm was the top and common indication during anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 therapy with cardiotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study could help early diagnosis and surveillance of ICIs-related cardiotoxicity.

[Update cardio-oncology : Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy]

Cardiovascular diseases and cancer are the most common causes of death in Germany. Cancer treatment can lead to significant cardiovascular side effects and thus form a link between the two disease groups. The focus of cardio-oncology is on the best possible prevention, diagnostics and treatment of cardiovascular complications caused by cancer treatment. It is crucial for cardio-oncology to adapt to the continuous development of new forms of oncological treatment with previously unknown cardiovascular side effects. One such new form of treatment is immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy, which is regarded as the most important oncological milestone of the last decade due to its excellent oncological efficacy; however, the growing use has revealed a high risk of diverse cardiovascular side effects with high morbidity and mortality, so that cardio-oncological care of affected patients is of particular importance. This review summarizes the current scientific and clinical state of the pathophysiology, incidence, diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular side effects of ICI therapy.

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the prognosis of cancer. Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been shown to have a negative effect on patients treated with ICIs. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are effective antidiabetic therapies associated with reduced all-cause mortality and cardiovascular (CV) outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prognostic value of SGLT2i on all-cause mortality and cardiotoxicity among patients treated with ICIs.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with cancer and type 2 DM (DM2) and treated with ICIs at our center. Patients were divided into two groups according to baseline treatment with or without SGLT2i. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality and the secondary endpoint was MACE, including myocarditis, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and arrhythmia.

RESULTS

The cohort included 119 patients, with 24 (20%) patients assigned to the SGLT2i group. Both groups exhibited a comparable prevalence of cardiac risk factors, although the SGLT2i group displayed a higher incidence of ischemic heart disease. Over a median follow-up of 28 months, 61 (51%) patients died, with a significantly lower all-cause mortality rate in the SGLT2i group (21% vs. 59%, p = 0.002). While there were no significant differences in MACE, we observed zero cases of myocarditis and atrial fibrillation in the SGLT2i, compared to 2 and 6 cases in the non-SGLT2i group.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2i therapy was associated with a lower all-cause mortality rate in patients diagnosed with cancer and DM2 and treated with ICIs. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism and evaluate its benefit on cardiotoxicity.

Rare Immune-Related Adverse Events (irAEs): Approach to Diagnosis and Management

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionised the treatment landscape across many solid organ malignancies and form part of routine clinical practice in many tumours. As indications for monotherapy, doublet therapy and combination approaches with chemotherapy and targeted agents expand, clinicians must be aware of the wide range of possible immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Common toxicities, including rash, colitis, hepatitis and pneumonitis are well described in the literature, and have established diagnostic and management algorithms. Rarer toxicities, often with an incidence of less than 1%, are less defined. These syndromes can be poorly recognised, may take on a fulminant course and do not have established or evidence-based diagnostic and management strategies. As such, patients may experience increased morbidity, mortality and poorer outcomes, related both to these irAEs as well as how the treatment of these may affect the management of their underlying malignancy. In this review, we aim to explore the incidence, potential biomarkers, pathogenesis, diagnostic work-up and clinical sequelae of a selection of uncommon irAEs, with a focus on myocarditis, neurological and haematologic syndromes. Further prospective research is required to accurately define the incidence and pathogenesis of these conditions, with the aim of increasing clinician awareness of rare irAEs and to assist with a more personalised and mechanism-based approach to these syndromes.

Heart Disease Mortality in Cancer Survivors: A Population-Based Study in Japan

BACKGROUND

Data on the risk of cardiovascular-related mortality in patients with cancer are limited.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Osaka Cancer Registry and vital statistics in Japan between 1985 and 2013. The causes of death were investigated, and the risk of fatal heart disease was analyzed. Standardized mortality ratios were calculated to compare the risk of fatal heart disease between patients with cancer and the general population. Fine and Gray competing risk regression models were used to assess the risk of fatal heart disease among patients with cancer. In total, 682 886 patients with cancer were included in the analysis, and 335 635 patients died during the study period. Heart disease was the leading cause of noncancer deaths, with 10 686 deaths. Among the patients who died of heart disease, 5017 had ischemic heart disease, 3598 had heart failure, 356 had hypertensive disease, and 1715 had other heart diseases. The standardized mortality ratio for heart disease was 2.80 (95% CI, 2.74-2.85). The standardized mortality ratio for ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and hypertensive disease were 3.26 (95% CI, 3.17-3.35), 2.69 (95% CI, 2.60-2.78), and 5.97 (95% CI, 5.38-6.63), respectively. The risk of fatal heart disease increased over time after cancer diagnosis. Men were more likely to die of heart disease than women (subdistribution hazard ratio, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.02-1.16]). The risk of fatal heart disease among cancer survivors has decreased in recent years.

CONCLUSIONS

Cancer survivors have a higher risk of fatal heart disease than the general population.

Successful treatment with nivolumab in a patient with unresectable oral squamous cell carcinoma following ineffective chemoradiotherapy

Key clinical message

Nivolumab has been clinically successful in prolonging the overall survival of patients with recurrent and metastatic head and neck cancer, complete remission is rare. Synergistic combinations of immunotherapy and conventional cancer treatments, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy, are likely to be the most viable strategies for improving patient responses.

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized recurrent, metastatic oral cancer treatment; however complete remission in advanced stages is unusual. We present a case of complete remission of advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma for >4 years in a 64-year-old Japanese woman, that responded poorly to chemoradiotherapy but well to subsequent nivolumab treatment.

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Their Cardiovascular Adverse Effects

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have reshaped and have become a well-established treatment modality for multiple advanced-stage malignancies. ICIs block the immune system regulatory checkpoints, namely CTLA-4 and PD-1/PDL1, which provokes excess immune response against self-antigens. Immune modulation with ICIs can result in diverse immune-related adverse events targeting organ systems. Several cases of ICI-related cardiotoxicity were reported, while the actual incidence was likely underestimated due to heterogeneous clinical presentation. These include, but are not limited to, myocarditis, pericarditis, atherosclerosis, and arrhythmia. EKG, Troponin, Echocardiogram (TTE), and Cardiac MRI (CMRI) are indispensable diagnostic tools to aid in the management of cardiac adverse effects. Herein, we review the ICI-mediated cardiovascular adverse events, diagnosis, treatment strategies, and reintroduction of ICIs post-cardiotoxicity.

Circulating Cardiovascular Biomarkers in Cancer Therapeutics-Related Cardiotoxicity: Review of Critical Challenges, Solutions, and Future Directions

Cardiotoxicity is a growing concern in the oncology population. Transthoracic echocardiography and multigated acquisition scans have been used for surveillance but are relatively insensitive and resource intensive. Innovative imaging techniques are constrained by cost and availability. More sensitive, cost-effective cardiotoxicity surveillance strategies are needed. Circulating cardiovascular biomarkers could provide a sensitive, low-cost solution. Biomarkers such as troponins, natriuretic peptides (NPs), novel upstream signals of oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis as well as panomic technologies have shown substantial promise, and guidelines recommend baseline measurement of troponins and NPs in all patients receiving potential cardiotoxins. Nonetheless, supporting evidence has been hampered by several limitations. Previous reviews have provided valuable perspectives on biomarkers in cancer populations, but important analytic aspects remain to be examined in depth. This review provides comprehensive assessment of critical challenges and solutions in this field, with focus on analytical issues relating to biomarker measurement and interpretation. Examination of evidence pertaining to common and serious forms of cardiotoxicity reveals that improved study designs incorporating larger, more diverse populations, registry-based approaches, and refinement of current definitions are key. Further efforts to harmonize biomarker methodologies including centralized biobanking and analyses, novel decision limits, and head-to-head comparisons are needed. Multimarker algorithms incorporating machine learning may allow rapid, personalized risk assessment. These improvements will not only augment the predictive value of circulating biomarkers in cardiotoxicity but may elucidate both direct and indirect relationships between cardiovascular disease and cancer, allowing biomarkers a greater role in the development and success of novel anticancer therapies.

Cardiovascular toxicity of checkpoint inhibitors: review of associated toxicity and design of the Spanish Immunotherapy Registry of Cardiovascular Toxicity

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have changed the prognosis of many tumors. However, concerning associated cardiotoxicity has been reported. Little is known about the real-life incidence-specific surveillance protocols or the translational correlation between the underlying mechanisms and the clinical presentation of ICI-induced cardiotoxicity. The lack of data from prospective studies led us to review the current knowledge and to present the creation of the Spanish Immunotherapy Registry of Cardiovascular Toxicity (SIR-CVT), a prospective registry of patients receiving ICI that aims to examine the role of hsa-miR-Chr8:96, (a specific serum biomarker of myocarditis) in the early diagnosis of ICI-induced myocarditis. An exhaustive prospective cardiac imaging study will be performed before and during the first 12 months of treatment. The correlation between clinical, imaging, and immunologic parameters may improve our understanding of ICI-induced cardiotoxicity and enable simpler surveillance protocols. We assess ICI-induced cardiovascular toxicity and describe the rationale of the SIR-CVT.

Reflecting on the cardiac toxicity in non-small cell lung cancer in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy combined with thoracic radiotherapy

In recent years, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a widely used treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and the combination with traditional radiotherapy (RT) has shown significant potential in prolonging patient survival. However, both thoracic RT and ICIs can lead to cardiac toxicity, including radiation-induced heart damage (RIHD) and immunotherapy-related heart damage (IRHD). It still remains uncertain whether the combination of thoracic RT and immunotherapy will exacerbate acute or late cardiovascular (CV) toxicity and incidence. In this review, we summarize safety data from relevant clinical studies regarding CV toxicity for the combination therapy in NSCLC patients, explore the underlying synergetic mechanisms and common risk factors, and proposed treatment and management strategies. We hope to increase emphasis on the long-term assessment of CV toxicity risks associated with the combination therapy, and reduce the incidence of CV deaths resulting from such regimens.

A Cholesterol Metabolic Regulated Hydrogen-Bonded Organic Framework (HOF)-Based Biotuner for Antibody Non-Dependent Immunotherapy Tailored for Glioblastoma

The metabolic reprogramming of glioblastoma (GBM) poses a tremendous obstacle to effective immunotherapy due to its impact on the immunosuppressive microenvironment. In this work, a hydrogen-bonded organic framework (HOF) specifically designed for GBM immunotherapy is developed, taking advantage of the relatively isolated cholesterol metabolism microenvironment in the central nervous system (CNS). The HOF-based biotuner regulates extra/intracellular cholesterol metabolism, effectively blocking the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) pathway and reducing 2B4 expression. This metabolically disrupts the immunosuppressive microenvironment of GBM and rejuvenates CD8+ T cells. Moreover, cholesterol metabolism regulation offers additional benefits in treating GBM invasion. Furthermore, tumor microenvironment (TME)-initiated chemiexcited photodynamic therapy (PDT) is enhanced during the regulation of cholesterol metabolism, and the biotuner can effectively trigger immunogenic cell death (ICD) and increase the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) in GBM. By reversing the immunosuppressive microenvironment and bolstering chemiexcited-PDT, this approach invigorates efficient antibody non-dependent immunotherapy for GBM. This study provides a model for enhancing immunotherapy through cholesterol metabolism regulation and explores the feasibility of a "metabolic checkpoint" strategy in GBM treatment.

Cause of death during nasopharyngeal carcinoma survivorship: a population-based analysis

Background

Recently, the survival rate of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients has improved greatly due to developments in NPC treatments. But cause-specific mortality in NPC patients remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the common causes of death in NPC patients.

Methods

Eligible patients with NPC were included from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Standardized mortality ratios(SMRs) were calculated to compare death rates in NPC patients with those in the general population.

Results

A total of 3475 patients with NPC were included, of whom 1696 patients died during the follow-up period. 52.83% of deaths were caused by NPC, followed by other cancers (28.13%) and non-cancer causes (18.46%). The proportion of patients who died of NPC decreased over survival time. Moreover, non-cancer causes of death increase from 12.94% to 51.22% over time after 10 years of diagnosis. Heart diseases was the most common non-cancer cause of death in NPC patients.

Conclusions

Although NPC remains the leading cause of death after NPC diagnosis, other non-NPC causes of death represent an increased number of death in NPC patients. These findings support the involvement of multidisciplinary care for follow-up strategy in NPC patients.