Clinical Features, Management, and Outcomes of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Related Cardiotoxicity

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.

Targeting pro-inflammatory T cells as a novel therapeutic approach to potentially resolve atherosclerosis in humans

Atherosclerosis (AS), a leading cause of cardio-cerebrovascular disease worldwide, is driven by the accumulation of lipid contents and chronic inflammation. Traditional strategies primarily focus on lipid reduction to control AS progression, leaving residual inflammatory risks for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). While anti-inflammatory therapies targeting innate immunity have reduced MACEs, many patients continue to face significant risks. Another key component in AS progression is adaptive immunity, but its potential role in preventing AS remains unclear. To investigate this, we conducted a retrospective cohort study on tumor patients with AS plaques. We found that anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibody (mAb) significantly reduces AS plaque size. With multi-omics single-cell analyses, we comprehensively characterized AS plaque-specific PD-1+ T cells, which are activated and pro-inflammatory. We demonstrated that anti-PD-1 mAb, when captured by myeloid-expressed Fc gamma receptors (FcγRs), interacts with PD-1 expressed on T cells. This interaction turns the anti-PD-1 mAb into a substitute PD-1 ligand, suppressing T-cell functions in the PD-1 ligands-deficient context of AS plaques. Further, we conducted a prospective cohort study on tumor patients treated with anti-PD-1 mAb with or without Fc-binding capability. Our analysis shows that anti-PD-1 mAb with Fc-binding capability effectively reduces AS plaque size, while anti-PD-1 mAb without Fc-binding capability does not. Our work suggests that T cell-targeting immunotherapy can be an effective strategy to resolve AS in humans.

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.

Cardiovascular toxicity of immune therapies for cancer

In addition to conventional chemoradiation and targeted cancer therapy, the use of immune based therapies, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy (CAR-T), has increased exponentially across a wide spectrum of cancers. This has been paralleled by recognition of off-target immune related adverse events that can affect almost any organ system including the cardiovascular system. The use of ICIs has been associated with myocarditis, a less common but highly fatal adverse effect, pericarditis and pericardial effusions, vasculitis, thromboembolism, and potentially accelerated atherosclerosis. CAR-T resulting in a systemic cytokine release syndrome has been associated with myriad cardiovascular consequences including arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding adverse cardiovascular effects associated with ICIs and CAR-T.

Elevated IL-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Myocarditis

INTRODUCTION

The impact of peripheral cytokine levels on the prognosis and treatment of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) myocarditis has not been well studied.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to identify cytokines that can prognosticate and direct the treatment of ICI myocarditis.

METHODS

This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study of patients with ICI myocarditis who had available peripheral cytokine levels between January 2011 and May 2022. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) were defined as a composite of heart failure with/without cardiogenic shock, arterial thrombosis, life-threatening arrhythmias, pulmonary embolism, and sudden cardiac death.

RESULTS

In total, 65 patients with ICI myocarditis had cytokine data available. Patients were mostly males (70%), with a mean age of 67.8 ± 12.7 years. Interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were the most common cytokines to be elevated with 48/65 (74%) of patients having a peak IL-6 above normal limits (>5 pg/mL) and 44/65 (68%) of patients with peak TNF-α above normal limits (>22 pg/mL). Patients with elevated peak IL-6 had similar 90-day mortality and MACE outcomes compared to those without (10.4% vs. 11.8%, p = 0.878 and 8.8% vs. 17.7%, p = 0.366, respectively). Similarly, those with elevated peak TNF-α had similar 90-day mortality and MACEs compared to those without (29.6% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.182 and 13.6% vs. 4.8%, p = 0.413, respectively). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis also showed that there was not a significant difference between MACE-free survival when comparing elevated and normal IL-6 and TNF-α levels (p = 0.182 and p = 0.118, respectively). MACEs and overall survival outcomes were similar between those who received infliximab and those who did not among all patients and those with elevated TNF-α (p-value 0.70 and 0.83, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Peripheral blood levels of IL-6 and TNF-α are the most commonly elevated cytokines in patients with ICI myocarditis. However, their role in the prognostication and guidance of immunomodulatory treatment is currently limited.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as an Ideal Platform for Cancer Immunotherapy: Recent Advances and Future Directions

Cancer immunotherapy recently transforms the traditional approaches against various cancer malignancies. Immunotherapy includes systemic and local treatments to enhance immune responses against cancer and involves strategies such as immune checkpoints, cancer vaccines, immune modulatory agents, mimetic antigen-presenting cells, and adoptive cell therapy. Despite promising results, these approaches still suffer from several limitations including lack of precise delivery of immune-modulatory agents to the target cells and off-target toxicity, among others, that can be overcome using nanotechnology. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are investigated to improve various aspects of cancer immunotherapy attributed to the advantageous structural features of this nanomaterial. MSNs can be engineered to alter their properties such as size, shape, porosity, surface functionality, and adjuvanticity. This review explores the immunological properties of MSNs and the use of MSNs as delivery vehicles for immune-adjuvants, vaccines, and mimetic antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The review also details the current strategies to remodel the tumor microenvironment to positively reciprocate toward the anti-tumor immune cells and the use of MSNs for immunotherapy in combination with other anti-tumor therapies including photodynamic/thermal therapies to enhance the therapeutic effect against cancer. Last, the present demands and future scenarios for the use of MSNs for cancer immunotherapy are discussed.

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.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-related myositis and myocarditis: diagnostic pitfalls and imaging contribution in a real-world, institutional case series

BACKGROUND

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are reshaping the prognosis of many cancers, but often cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Among neurological irAEs, myositis is the most frequently reported. Our aim is to describe clinical and non-clinical characteristics, treatment and outcome of all irMyositis (skeletal limb-girdle and/or ocular myositis) and irMyocarditis cases in our reference center.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled all irMyositis/irMyocarditis patients seen between 2018 and 2022. We reviewed demographics, clinical characteristics, biological, neurophysiological, imaging workup, treatment and outcome.

RESULTS

We included 14 consecutive patients. The most frequent treatments were pembrolizumab (35%) or ipilimumab-nivolumab combination (35%). Limb-girdle, ocular (non-fluctuating palpebral ptosis and/or diplopia with or without ophthalmoparesis) and cardiac phenotypes were equally distributed, overlapping in 40% of cases. Ocular involvement was frequently misdiagnosed; review of brain MRIs disclosed initially missed signs of skeletal myositis in one patient and ocular myositis in 3. Seven patients had other co-existing irAEs. When performed, myography showed a myogenic pattern. CK was elevated in 8/15 patients, troponin-T in 12/12 and troponin-I in 7/9 tested patients. ICI were discontinued in all cases, with further immunosuppressive treatment in nine patients. In most cases, neurological and cardiological outcome was good at last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Myositis is a potentially severe irAE. Despite its heterogeneous presentation, some highly suggestive clinical symptoms, such as ocular involvement, or radiological signs should raise physicians' attention to avoid misdiagnosis. We thus recommend a multidisciplinary assessment (including complete neuromuscular evaluation) even in case of isolated myocarditis. Our series underlines the importance of an early diagnosis, since suspension of ICI and adequate treatment are usually associated with good functional outcome.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myopericarditis

A woman in her 30s with a medical history of metastatic rectal adenocarcinoma, currently on pembrolizumab, which started a few weeks ago, was admitted for abdominal pain. During the hospital stay, she experienced sharp chest pain. Troponin was 1885 ng/mL which peaked at 7338 ng/mL. ECG was unremarkable. The echocardiogram showed an Ejection fraction (EF) of 55%-60% and basal-inferior wall hypokinesis. Left heart catheterisation showed no coronary abnormalities. Cardiac MRI showed a non-coronary area of focal T1 and T2 hyperintense signal and transmural delayed gadolinium enhancement in the mid-basal inferior/inferoseptal wall consistent with myocardial damage. Pericardium showed increased thickness and adhesions at the right ventricular outflow tract consistent with pericarditis. Steroid therapy was initiated, and a marked clinical response was achieved. Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myocarditis and pericarditis is a rare complication associated with a high mortality rate, if untreated. Diagnosis requires a multidisciplinary approach, and early detection is critical to preventing a fatal outcome.

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.

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.

Case Report: Sudden very late-onset near fatal PD1 inhibitor-associated myocarditis with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest after >2.5 years of pembrolizumab treatment

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have advanced the outcomes of many different types of cancer. A rare but extraordinarily severe complication of these agents resembles immune checkpoint inhibitor-related myocarditis, which typically occurs within the first few weeks after treatment initiation with a mortality of 25%-50%.

Case report

A 57-year-old woman had uneventfully received pembrolizumab for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer for over 2.5 years and was admitted after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation. After successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the initial diagnostic work-up showed elevated cardiac enzymes and a limited left-ventricular ejection fraction, while coronary angiography did not show relevant stenosis. Despite cardiac MRI being unsuggestive of myocarditis, myocardial biopsies were obtained and histologically confirmed anti-PD-1 antibody-associated myocarditis. After the initiation of prednisone at 1 mg/kg body weight, the patient gradually recovered and was discharged three weeks later with markedly improved cardiac function.

Conclusion

This case resembles the first description of a very late onset irMyocarditis, occurring over 2.5 years after the start of treatment. It demonstrates the importance of contemplating that severe immune-related toxicities with a sudden onset clinical presentation may occur even after long uneventful periods of anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment. Furthermore, it underlines the critical importance of myocardial biopsies in this setting, especially when cardiac MRI remains inconclusive. Moreover, it demonstrates the necessity and benefits of early immunosuppressive treatment if immune-related myocarditis is considered a differential diagnosis.

Circulating biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related myocarditis: time for a risk-based approach

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are monoclonal antibodies that block immune checkpoints and therefore activate immune cells, allowing them to recognize and attack cancer cells. ICIs have revolutionized oncology practice, but their use has been complicated by immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Of cardiovascular (CV) irAEs, ICI-related myocarditis has received significant attention due to high mortality rates, ranging from 25% to 50%, despite its overall low incidence. Establishing the early diagnosis of ICI-myocarditis is important for early initiation of steroids and consideration of hospitalization in patients who are at risk for hemodynamic compromise and need high acuity care in a tertiary setting. In this review, we summarize the diagnostic and prognostic tools for ICI-myocarditis, including electrocardiography, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, with emphasis on circulating biomarkers. Cardiac troponins (cTns) are an essential component of the diagnosis of ICI-myocarditis, and we provide a summary of the recent studies that utilized different assays (cTnI vs. cTnT) and outcomes (diagnosis vs. prognosis including major adverse cardiac outcomes). With the exponential increase in ICI use across different oncology indications, there is a major need to include biomarkers in risk stratification to guide diagnosis and treatment. Our review proposes a framework for future multisite registries, including cTn evaluation at baseline and at the time of irAE suspicion, with development of central biobanking to allow head-to-head evaluation and clinical validation of different biomarker assays in ICI-myocarditis. This approach, with the inclusion of CV biomarkers into clinical and pragmatic oncology trials, holds promise to improve the early recognition and management of ICI-myocarditis and CV irAEs, thus leading to better outcomes.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors associated cardiovascular immune-related adverse events

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are specialized monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target immune checkpoints and their ligands, counteracting cancer cell-induced T-cell suppression. Approved ICIs like cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), programmed death-1 (PD-1), its ligand PD-L1, and lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3) have improved cancer patient outcomes by enhancing anti-tumor responses. However, some patients are unresponsive, and others experience immune-related adverse events (irAEs), affecting organs like the lung, liver, intestine, skin and now the cardiovascular system. These cardiac irAEs include conditions like myocarditis, atherosclerosis, pericarditis, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy. Ongoing clinical trials investigate promising alternative co-inhibitory receptor targets, including T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (Tim-3) and T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT). This review delves into the mechanisms of approved ICIs (CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1, and LAG-3) and upcoming options like Tim-3 and TIGIT. It explores the use of ICIs in cancer treatment, supported by both preclinical and clinical data. Additionally, it examines the mechanisms behind cardiac toxic irAEs, focusing on ICI-associated myocarditis and atherosclerosis. These insights are vital as ICIs continue to revolutionize cancer therapy, offering hope to patients, while also necessitating careful monitoring and management of potential side effects, including emerging cardiac complications.

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.

Drug-induced atrial fibrillation. A narrative review of a forgotten adverse effect

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with an increased morbidity and mortality. There is clinical evidence that an increasing number of cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular drugs, mainly anticancer drugs, can induce AF either in patients with or without pre-existing cardiac disorders, but drug-induced AF (DIAF) has not received the attention that it might deserve. In many cases DIAF is asymptomatic and paroxysmal and patients recover sinus rhythm spontaneously, but sometimes, DIAF persists, and it is necessary to perform a cardioversion. Furthermore, DIAF is not mentioned in clinical guidelines on the treatment of AF. The risk of DIAF increases in elderly and in patients treated with polypharmacy and with risk factors and comorbidities that commonly coexist with AF. This is the case of cancer patients. Under these circumstances ascribing causality of DIAF to a given drug often represents a clinical challenge. We review the incidence, the pathophysiological mechanisms, risk factors, clinical relevance, and treatment of DIAF. Because of the limited information presently available, further research is needed to obtain a deeper insight into DIAF. Meanwhile, it is important that clinicians are aware of the problem that DIAF represents, recognize which drugs may cause DIAF, and consider the possibility that a drug may be responsible for a new-onset AF episode.

Perimyocarditis Associated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Patient prognoses have been significantly enhanced by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), altering the standard of care in cancer treatment. These novel antibodies have become a mainstay of care for metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) patients. Several types of adverse events related to ICIs have been identified and documented as a result of the launch of these innovative medicines. We present here a 74-year-old female patient with a stage IV lung adenocarcinoma, treated with nivolumab plus ipilimumab, who developed perimyocarditis two weeks after receiving the third cycle of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The patient was diagnosed using troponin levels, computed tomography (CT) angiography, and echocardiography. After hospitalization, her cardiac condition was successfully resolved with corticosteroids, colchicine, and symptomatic treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the rarest cases to be reported of perimyocarditis as a toxicity of immunotherapy in a patient treated for adenocarcinoma of the lung.

Immune checkpoints in cardiac physiology and pathology: therapeutic targets for heart failure

Immune checkpoint molecules are physiological regulators of the adaptive immune response. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), such as monoclonal antibodies targeting programmed cell death protein 1 or cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4, have revolutionized cancer treatment and their clinical use is increasing. However, ICIs can cause various immune-related adverse events, including acute and chronic cardiotoxicity. Of these cardiovascular complications, ICI-induced acute fulminant myocarditis is the most studied, although emerging clinical and preclinical data are uncovering the importance of other ICI-related chronic cardiovascular complications, such as accelerated atherosclerosis and non-myocarditis-related heart failure. These complications could be more difficult to diagnose, given that they might only be present alongside other comorbidities. The occurrence of these complications suggests a potential role of immune checkpoint molecules in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis, and disruption of physiological immune checkpoint signalling might thus lead to cardiac pathologies, including heart failure. Although inflammation is a long-known contributor to the development of heart failure, the therapeutic targeting of pro-inflammatory pathways has not been successful thus far. The increasingly recognized role of immune checkpoint molecules in the failing heart highlights their potential use as immunotherapeutic targets for heart failure. In this Review, we summarize the available data on ICI-induced cardiac dysfunction and heart failure, and discuss how immune checkpoint signalling is altered in the failing heart. Furthermore, we describe how pharmacological targeting of immune checkpoints could be used to treat heart failure.

A contemporary update on cancer and takotsubo syndrome

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is characterized by a transient left ventricular systolic dysfunction, burdened by significant acute and long-term mortality and morbidity. The prognosis of TTS, especially in the long-term, is influenced by both non-cardiovascular (non-CV) and CV comorbidities, among which cancer is one of the most common. The presence of a malignancy is proven to be associated with higher mortality in TTS. Moreover, a number of anticancer treatments has been reported to possibly cause TTS as a form of cardiotoxicity, even though clearcut associations are lacking. The aim of this narrative review is to sum up contemporary knowledge on the association of cancer and TTS, addressing unmet needs and practical implications. The importance of a close collaboration between cardiologists and oncologists is herein highlighted, both to allow an adequate management of the acute TTS phase, and to actively and safely return to the oncologic management once the acute setting is resolved.

Priorities in Cardio-Oncology Basic and Translational Science: GCOS 2023 Symposium Proceedings: JACC: CardioOncology State-of-the-Art Review

Despite improvements in cancer survival, cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity has risen to become a prominent clinical challenge. This has led to the growth of the burgeoning field of cardio-oncology, which aims to advance the cardiovascular health of cancer patients and survivors, through actionable and translatable science. In these Global Cardio-Oncology Symposium 2023 scientific symposium proceedings, we present a focused review on the mechanisms that contribute to common cardiovascular toxicities discussed at this meeting, the ongoing international collaborative efforts to improve patient outcomes, and the bidirectional challenges of translating basic research to clinical care. We acknowledge that there are many additional therapies that are of significance but were not topics of discussion at this symposium. We hope that through this symposium-based review we can highlight the knowledge gaps and clinical priorities to inform the design of future studies that aim to prevent and mitigate cardiovascular disease in cancer patients and survivors.

Role of echocardiography in patients treated with immune checkpoints inhibitors

Immune-related adverse events occurring in the heart (cardiac immune-related adverse events; irAEs) by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) include myocarditis, arrhythmia, conduction disturbance, pericardial diseases, and takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Cardiac irAEs are rare but life-threatening. In cardio-oncology, the study of cardiac disorders caused by cancer treatment has recently attracted attention, and such studies may elucidate the pathophysiology of cardiac irAEs and contribute to management strategies. This review discusses the pathogenic mechanisms underlying cardiac irAEs and the role of echocardiography in patients treated with ICIs.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic impact of immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated myocarditis in advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Myocarditis is a rare immune-related adverse events (irAEs) with high mortality rates, with few reports on its clinical characteristics and prognostic impact. This study designed to explore the associations between cardiac parameters and outcomes of myocarditis in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). Fourteen patients diagnosed with ICI-associated myocarditis by clinicians were admitted to the study analysis. By Cox univariate and multivariate survival analyses, potential risk factors for the development of severe myocarditis were identified. Survival analysis was also performed to explore the prognosis of patients with myocarditis. Among patients with myocarditis, higher B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels (P = 0.04) and conduction block (P = 0.03) were associated with progression to severe myocarditis. In addition, high lactate dehydrogenase (LHD) levels (P = .04) and myocarditis onset within 2 months (P = 0.02) were prognostic factors of severe myocarditis. The median progression-free survival (PFS) time and median overall survival (OS) time for all patients were 5.9 months and 18.5 months, respectively. However, there were no statistical differences between mild and severe cohorts in terms of PFS and OS (PFS: 4.5 vs. 8.5 months, P = 0.17; OS: 21.3 vs. 18.5months, P = 0.36). And we found that the earlier occurrence of myocarditis, worse PFS prognosis (4.5 months vs. 10.5 months, P = 0.008), while no difference in OS (18.5 months vs. 21.3 months, P = 0.35). Compared to mild myocarditis, severe myocarditis presented with higher BNP levels and cardiac conduction abnormalities. In addition, patients with mild and early myocarditis tended to have better survival rates.

Plasma exchange plus glucocorticoids in the treatment of immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myocarditis: A case series and review

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including antiprogrammed cell-death (PD)-1/anti-PD-ligand (PDL-1) monoclonal antibodies, are effective at improving the prognosis of patients with cancer. Among immune-related adverse events, myocarditis associated with anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 antibodies is rare but lacks effective treatment and mortality is very high. In this study, the authors extracted data from the previous 8 years from electronic medical records housed in the hospital information system to identify patients hospitalized with myocarditis putatively caused by anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 tumor therapy. Clinical data from these patients are reported. Four patients who developed myocarditis after undergoing treatment with anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 antibodies for malignant tumors, all of whom responded favorably to therapy consisting of plasma exchange and glucocorticoids for myocarditis, and all patients improved and were discharged from hospital. Plasma exchange plus systemic glucocorticoids may be effective for treating anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 antibody-induced myocarditis in patients with cancer.

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.

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 case of Brugada phenocopy alteration induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors

Immunotherapy has shown remarkable efficacy in various cancer treatments. However, enhanced T-cell immune surveillance can lead to aberrant immune responses, resulting in severe immune checkpoint inhibitor-related adverse events. This is a case report of a patient previously treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors who presented with ST-segment elevation without abnormal troponin and cardiac enzyme spectrum test results. Cardiac toxicity of immune checkpoint inhibitors mainly manifests as acute immune-mediated myocarditis. While Brugada phenocopy is commonly caused by fever, electrolyte abnormalities, tricyclic/tetracyclic antidepressants, and marijuana use, we suspect that it was induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors in the current case.

Update on Immunotherapy Cardiotoxicity: Checkpoint Inhibitors, CAR T, and Beyond

OPINION STATEMENT

Immunotherapy is an innovative approach to cancer treatment that involves using the body's immune system to fight cancer. The landscape of immunotherapy is constantly evolving, as new therapies are developed and refined. Some of the most promising approaches in immunotherapy include immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs): these drugs target proteins on the surface of T-cells that inhibit their ability to attack cancer cells. By blocking these proteins, checkpoint inhibitors allow T-cells to recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. CAR T-cell therapy: this therapy involves genetically modifying a patient's own T-cells to recognize and attack cancer cells. CAR T-cell therapy exhibits favorable response in many patients with refractory hematological cancers with growing clinical trials in solid tumors. Immune system modulators: these drugs enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer by stimulating the production of immune cells or inhibiting the activity of immune-suppressing cells. While immunotherapy has shown great promise in the treatment of cancer, it can also pose significant cardiac side effects. Some immunotherapy drugs like ICIs can cause myocarditis, which can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart failure. Other cardiac side effects of ICIs include arrhythmias, pericarditis, vasculitis, and accelerated atherosclerosis. It is important for patients receiving immunotherapy to be monitored closely for these side effects, as prompt treatment can help prevent serious complications. Patients should also report any symptoms to their healthcare providers right away, so that appropriate action can be taken. CAR T-cell therapy can also illicit an exaggerated immune response creating cytokine release syndrome (CRS) that may precipitate cardiovascular events: arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. Overall, while immune modulating therapy is a promising and expanding approach to cancer treatment, it is important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and side effects, especially in patients with high risk for cardiovascular complications.

Recent Advances in Serum Biomarkers for Cardiological Risk Stratification and Insight into the Cardiac Management of the Patients With Hematological Malignancies Treated With Targeted Therapy

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) have emerged as a common and serious complication of cancer treatment, particularly in patients undergoing cardiotoxic therapies. Over the last few years, the medical community has become increasingly aware of the potential for cardiotoxicity resulting from cancer treatments involving chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and radiation therapy. This recognition is due to the significant risk of morbidity and mortality in cancer patients and survivors resulting from such treatment-induced cardiovascular damage. While the cardiotoxic effects of chemotherapy and targeted therapy have been discussed in medical literature, only a limited number of studies have explored the role of serum biomarkers in cardiological risk stratification. In recent years, serum biomarkers have emerged as a valuable tool for assessing and managing cardiotoxicity in patients with hematological malignancies. This review article provides a summary of the current state of knowledge on the usefulness of biomarkers in managing cardiotoxicity resulting from different targeted therapies throughout the cancer care continuum. Although cardiac biomarkers have demonstrated potential in identifying subclinical cardiotoxicity and tracking the response to cardioprotective treatments, further research is necessary to determine optimal biomarkers and surveillance strategies. The incorporation of cardiac biomarkers into clinical practice in patients undergoing targeted therapies could potentially lead to improved long-term cardiovascular outcomes in cancer patients and survivors.

Sintilimab-induced inflammatory myopathy in a patient with esophageal cancer: a case report

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has shown remarkable efficacy in the treatment of various malignancies, significantly reshaping cancer treatment. However, as a result of the widespread use of ICIs, several immune-related adverse events (iRAEs) have emerged, some of which can be rare and potentially fatal. In this paper, we reported the earliest case of Sintilimab used in the treatment of esophageal cancer with severe inflammatory myopathy (involving the cardiac, respiratory, and skeletal muscles)in China. This patient was an elderly female who presented to our institution with progressive limb weakness and ptosis. Prior to the onset of symptoms, the patient had undergone a radical esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, experienced several cycles of of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as two doses of Sintilimab treatment. Shortly after initiating immunotherapy, the patient developed symptoms including bilateral ptosis, limb weakness, and difficulty swallowing and breathing. The levels of creatine kinase and troponin I in the patient's blood were significantly elevated, and positive results were observed for anti-skeletal and anti-cardiac muscle antibodies, indicating that the patient might be developing ICIs-related inflammatory myopathy. Fortunately, the patient responded well to treatment including corticosteroids, plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin, and other supportive therapies. Here, we discuss the incidence, mechanisms, and management strategies of fatal iRAEs. Early detection and timely intervention may be critical in reducing the incidence and mortality rates of iRAEs and improving patient outcomes.

Sintilimab-Induced Myocarditis in a Patient with Gastric Cancer: A Case Report and Literature Review

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have emerged as a powerful and efficacious therapeutic approach for many cancer patients. Sintilimab is a fully human IgG4 monoclonal antibody that binds with programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) to block its interaction with ligands, thereby enhancing the antitumor effects of T cells. However, ICIs may induce immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in various systems and organs, with fulminant myocarditis being the most severe one. We report the case of a 45-year-old female with gastric cancer who developed chest pain two weeks after chemotherapy with sintilimab; she was diagnosed with immune-associated fulminant myocarditis and experienced an Adams-Stokes syndrome attack in the hospital. Eventually, she was discharged after being treated with methylprednisolone, immunoglobulin, and an IABP.

Complete heart block is a significant predictor of mortality in immune checkpoint inhibitor myocarditis

BACKGROUND

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) myocarditis is associated with significant mortality risk. Electrocardiogram (ECG) changes in ICI myocarditis have strong prognostic value. However the impact of complete heart block (CHB) is not well defined. This study sought to evaluate the impact of CHB on mortality in ICI myocarditis, and to identify clinical predictors of mortality and CHB incidence.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with ICI myocarditis at three Mayo Clinic sites from 1st January 2010 to 31st September 2022 to evaluate mortality rates at 180 days. Clinical, laboratory, ECG, echocardiographic, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) characteristics were assessed. Cox and logistic regression were performed for associations with mortality and CHB respectively.

RESULTS

Of 34 identified cases of ICI myocarditis, 7 (20.6%) had CHB. CHB was associated with higher mortality (HR 7.41, p = 0.03, attributable fraction 86.5%). Among those with CHB, troponin T (TnT) < 1000 ng/dL, low white blood cell count and high ventricular rate at admission were protective. There was trend towards increased survival among patients who underwent permanent pacemaker insertion (p = 0.051), although most experienced device lead complications. Factors associated with development of CHB included prolonged PR and QRS intervals and low Sokolow Lyon Index. Where these were normal and TnT was < 1000 ng/dL, no deaths occurred. Impaired myocardial longitudinal strain was sensitive for ICI myocarditis but was not prognostically significant.

CONCLUSION

There is a strong temporal association between CHB and early mortality in people with ICI myocarditis. Focusing on arrhythmogenic complications can be helpful in predicting outcomes for this group of critically ill individuals.

Usefulness of Longitudinal Strain to Assess Cancer Therapy-Related Cardiac Dysfunction and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Myocarditis

Longitudinal strain (LS) measured by echocardiography has been reported to be useful not only for the diagnosis and risk stratification of various cardiac diseases, but also in cardio-oncology. Most previous studies have been conducted on patients undergoing treatment with anthracyclines and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-targeted therapies. Existing guidelines recommend that global LS (GLS) should be measured before and after the administration of cancer drugs. This recommendation is based on many reports showing that a decline in GLS is indicative of early or mild cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction. The main purpose of this article is to provide insight into the importance of LS in patients undergoing cancer treatment and highlight the role of LS evaluation in patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment, which is being used with increasing frequency. Among cancer drug therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have an important place in cancer treatment and are used for the treatment of many types of cancer. Although the efficacy of ICIs in cancer treatment has been reported, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) have also been reported. Among these irAEs, cardiovascular complications, although rare, are recognized as important adverse events that may result in ICI treatment discontinuation. Myocarditis is one severe adverse event associated with ICIs, and it is important to standardize diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to it. Several studies have reported a relationship between LS and cardiac complications associated with ICIs which may contribute to the early diagnosis of ICI-induced cardiac complications.

Cardiovascular Toxicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Guide for Clinicians

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment and care of patients with cancer owing to unique features, including the occurrence of the so-called immune-related adverse events (irAEs). A multidisciplinary team, possibly including a cardio-oncology specialist, is warranted to achieve a favorable patient outcome. Cardiovascular toxicity, especially myocarditis, emerged as a life-threatening irAE in the real-word setting, and the European Society of Cardiology has recently published the first guideline on cardio-oncology to increase awareness and promote a standardized approach to tackle this complex multimodal issue, including diagnostic challenges, assessment, treatment, and surveillance of patients with cancer receiving ICIs. In this article, through a question & answer format made up of case vignettes, we offer a clinically oriented overview on the latest advancements of ICI-related cardiovascular toxicity, focusing on myocarditis and associated irAEs (myositis and myasthenia gravis within the so-called overlap syndrome), with the purpose of assisting clinicians and healthcare professionals in daily clinical practice.

Mediators and mechanisms of immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated myocarditis: Insights from mouse and human

The broad application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has led to significant gains in cancer outcomes. By abrogating inhibitory signals, ICIs promote T cell targeting of cancer cells but can frequently trigger autoimmune manifestations, termed immune-related adverse events (irAEs), affecting essentially any organ system. Among cardiovascular irAEs, immune-related myocarditis (irMyocarditis) is the most described and carries the highest morbidity. The currently recommended treatment for irMyocarditis is potent immunosuppression with corticosteroids and other agents, but this has limited evidence basis. The cellular pathophysiology of irMyocarditis remains poorly understood, though mouse models and human data have both implicated effector CD8+ T cells, some of which are specific for the cardiomyocyte protein α-myosin. While the driving molecular signals and transcriptional programs are not well defined, the involvement of chemokine receptors such as CCR5 and CXCR3 has been proposed. Fundamental questions regarding why only approximately 1% of ICI recipients develop irMyocarditis and why irMyocarditis carries a much worse prognosis than other forms of lymphocytic myocarditis remain unanswered. Further work in both murine systems and with human samples are needed to identify better tools for diagnosis, risk-stratification, and treatment.

Cardiomuscular Biomarkers in the Diagnosis and Prognostication of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Myocarditis

BACKGROUND

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are approved for multiple cancers but can result in ICI-associated myocarditis, an infrequent but life-threatening condition. Elevations in cardiac biomarkers, specifically troponin-I (cTnI), troponin-T (cTnT), and creatine kinase (CK), are used for diagnosis. However, the association between temporal elevations of these biomarkers with disease trajectory and outcomes has not been established.

METHODS

We analyzed the diagnostic accuracy and prognostic performances of cTnI, cTnT, and CK in patients with ICI myocarditis (n=60) through 1-year follow-up in 2 cardio-oncology units (APHP Sorbonne, Paris, France and Heidelberg, Germany). A total of 1751 (1 cTnT assay type), 920 (4 cTnI assay types), and 1191 CK sampling time points were available. Major adverse cardiomyotoxic events (MACE) were defined as heart failure, ventricular arrhythmia, atrioventricular or sinus block requiring pacemaker, respiratory muscle failure requiring mechanical ventilation, and sudden cardiac death. Diagnostic performance of cTnI and cTnT was also assessed in an international ICI myocarditis registry.

RESULTS

Within 72 hours of admission, cTnT, cTnI, and CK were increased compared with upper reference limits (URLs) in 56 of 57 (98%), 37 of 42 ([88%] P=0.03 versus cTnT), and 43 of 57 ([75%] P<0.001 versus cTnT), respectively. This increased rate of positivity for cTnT (93%) versus cTnI ([64%] P<0.001) on admission was confirmed in 87 independent cases from an international registry. In the Franco-German cohort, 24 of 60 (40%) patients developed ≥1 MACE (total, 52; median time to first MACE, 5 [interquartile range, 2-16] days). The highest value of cTnT:URL within the first 72 hours of admission performed best in terms of association with MACE within 90 days (area under the curve, 0.84) than CK:URL (area under the curve, 0.70). A cTnT:URL ≥32 within 72 hours of admission was the best cut-off associated with MACE within 90 days (hazard ratio, 11.1 [95% CI, 3.2-38.0]; P<0.001), after adjustment for age and sex. cTnT was increased in all patients within 72 hours of the first MACE (23 of 23 [100%]), whereas cTnI and CK values were less than the URL in 2 of 19 (11%) and 6 of 22 (27%) of patients (P<0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

cTnT is associated with MACE and is sensitive for diagnosis and surveillance in patients with ICI myocarditis. A cTnT:URL ratio <32 within 72 hours of diagnosis is associated with a subgroup at low risk for MACE. Potential differences in diagnostic and prognostic performances between cTnT and cTnI as a function of the assays used deserve further evaluation in ICI myocarditis.

Prospective Clinical Trials to Advance the Study of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Toxicity

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a class of drug that produces durable and sustained anti-tumour responses in a wide variety of malignancies. The exponential rise in their use has been mirrored by a rise in immune-related adverse events (IrAEs). Knowledge of such toxicities, as well as effective management algorithms for these toxicities, is essential to optimize clinical efficacy and safety. Currently, the guidelines for management of the IrAEs are based largely on retrospective studies and case series. In this article, we review the current landscape of clinical trials investigating the management of IrAEs with an aim to develop standardised, randomised controlled trial-based management algorithms for ICI-related toxicities.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors promising role in cancer therapy: clinical evidence and immune-related adverse events

The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has led to noteworthy progressions in the management of diverse cancer types, as evidenced by the pioneering "ipilimumab" medication authorized by US FDA in 2011. Importantly, ICIs agents have demonstrated encouraging potential in bringing about transformation across diverse forms of cancer by selectively targeting the immune checkpoint pathways that are exploited by cancerous cells for dodging the immune system, culminating in progressive and favorable health outcomes for patients. The primary mechanism of action (MOA) of ICIs involves blocking inhibitory immune checkpoints. There are three approved categories including Programmed Death (PD-1) inhibitors (cemiplimab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab), Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) (Ipilimumab), and Programmed Death-Ligand 1 (PDL-1) (Avelumab). Although ICIs promisingly increase therapeutic response and cancer survival rates, using ICIs has demonstrated some limitations including autoimmune reactions and toxicities, requiring close monitoring. The present review endeavors to explicate the underlying principles of the MOA and pharmacokinetics of the approved ICIs in the realm of cancer induction, including an appraisal of their level of practice-based evidence.

Multiorgan Failure From Nivolumab and Ipilimumab: A Case Report and Literature Review

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as standard of care have revolutionized the treatment of patients with metastatic melanoma. The combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab improves treatment efficacy and prolongs survival compared to monotherapy alone. However, combination therapy is also associated with an increased incidence of adverse events. We report an uncommon yet important case of multi-organ failure in a patient following a single dose of nivolumab plus ipilimumab. A 60-year-old male with a history of ulcerative colitis in remission and metastatic melanoma was admitted on February 25, 2021, for presumed sepsis, after presenting with neutropenic fever. His brain metastases were previously resected on January 14, 2021, and he was started on dexamethasone 4 mg BID for six weeks. On February 11, 2021, he received one dose of nivolumab plus ipilimumab, per the CheckMate-067 protocol. He presented 14 days later with fever, diarrhea, pancytopenia, renal failure, drug-induced hepatitis, and myocarditis. The infectious workup was negative. His neutropenia responded to growth factors. He was diagnosed with interstitial nephritis due to immunotherapy and treated with corticosteroids. His symptoms resolved with concomitant improvement of his renal, hepatic, and cardiac function. He was discharged home in a stable condition. Although these specific immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are uncommon and rarely occur simultaneously, ICIs can trigger non-specific immune system activation, resulting in widespread inflammatory effects. Since irAEs can lead to multi-organ failure, as evidenced in this case, early recognition and institution of high-dose steroids are critical to preventing rapid deterioration. Given that ICI therapy is the standard of care for several cancers and is often studied in clinical trials, increased education on irAE toxicity and updated algorithms on the management of febrile cancer patients are warranted.

Cardiovascular Effects of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: More Than Just Myocarditis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have reshaped the treatment of cancer, but they are characterized by peculiar toxicity consisting of immune-related adverse events that may potentially affect any organ or system. In this review, we summarize data on clinical presentation, diagnosis, pathogenesis, and management of the main immune-related cardiovascular toxicities of immune checkpoint inhibitors.

RECENT FINDINGS

The most relevant immune-related cardiovascular toxicity is myocarditis, but other non-negligible reported events include non-inflammatory heart failure, conduction abnormalities, pericardial disease, and vasculitis. More recently, growing evidence suggests a role for immune checkpoint inhibitors in accelerating atherosclerosis and promoting plaque inflammation, thus leading to myocardial infarction. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are associated with several forms of cardiovascular toxicity; thus, an accurate cardiovascular baseline evaluation and periodical monitoring are required. Furthermore, the optimization of cardiovascular risk factors before, during, and after treatment may contribute to mitigating both short-term and long-term cardiovascular toxicity of these drugs.

The Intersection of Prostate Cancer and Hypertension: a Call to Action

OPINION STATEMENT

With improvements in treatment and survival from prostate cancer, comorbid cardiac conditions will significantly impact overall morbidity and mortality from prostate cancer. Hypertension is a well-established cardiovascular risk factor that increases the risk of heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Therapies used in the treatment of prostate cancer, including GnRH agonists, GnRH antagonists, enzalutamide, abiraterone, and others, can directly or indirectly increase the risk of hypertension. In this paper, we review the evidence available on the incidence and mechanism of hypertension in prostate cancer patients. In addition, we provide recommendations on the assessment, treatment, and future directions for hypertension management in the prostate cancer population. We propose an individualized goal for blood pressure in prostate cancer patients, balancing the target goal of 130/80 mmHg with common comorbidities of frailty, orthostatic symptoms, and imbalance in this population. The presence of additional comorbidities (myocardial infarction, heart failure, renal disease, diabetes) can assist in preference of anti-hypertensive drugs.

A Systematic Review of Myocarditis Induced by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: How Concerning Is the Most Common Cardiotoxicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors?

Novel cancer therapies have revolutionized the management of various cancers. An immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) is one of these antitumor medications. ICIs, which are immune therapies, enhance the immune system's capacity to fight cancer cells. Based on the receptors that they inhibit, such as PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4, ICIs are subdivided. Although this class of drugs is extremely beneficial for cancer patients, their adverse effects can be fatal. Multiple organs, such as the cardiovascular system, may be impacted by immune-related adverse effects (irAEs). These cardiotoxic irAEs can occur at a rate of up to 1% and can be fatal. Myocarditis is the most prevalent of all cardiotoxicities. The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the seriousness of myocarditis, the most prevalent cardiotoxicity of ICIs, and the importance of screening. We chose studies based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 criteria. Therefore, from 2018 to 2023, we gathered articles from databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Of the 665 studies identified based on various screening methods and quality assessment tools, 13 were selected for inclusion in the study. This study shows that although the risk of myocarditis in ICI therapy is low and the majority of cases are asymptomatic or mild, some cases can be deadly and disastrous, and physicians should be aware that if myocarditis is suspected based on clinical symptoms, troponin, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram, treatment should be initiated accordingly.

Durvalumab-Associated Myocarditis Initially Presenting With Sinus Bradycardia Progressing Into Complete Heart Block

Durvalumab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1). It has been recently approved for the treatment of advanced urothelial and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with a more favorable side effect profile compared to traditional chemotherapy agents. We present a case of durvalumab-induced myocarditis complicated by complete heart block (CHB). A 71-year-old male with a history of atrial flutter status post ablation, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) recently started on durvalumab, presented with new sinus bradycardia on electrocardiogram (EKG). His initial labs were notable for a troponin T of 207 ng/L (normal range ≤50). Transthoracic echo (TTE) and computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the coronaries were unremarkable. The hospital course was complicated by CHB on telemetry for 15 minutes. Given hemodynamic instability, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could not be obtained. The patient received transvenous pacing. Electrophysiology and cardiology-oncology were consulted to evaluate for pacemaker implantation as well as management for durvalumab-induced myocarditis. Methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenous (IV) was started with an improvement in troponin levels but without improvement in CHB. His course was further complicated by polymorphic ventricular tachycardia prompting the placement of a permanent dual-chamber pacemaker. The patient was discharged on a prednisone taper, and durvalumab was discontinued. A diagnosis of durvalumab-induced myocarditis was made based on elevated troponin levels, with the exclusion of coronary artery disease with CTA of the coronaries. The persistence of conduction abnormalities despite treatment with steroids leads to the placement of a permanent pacemaker. Durvalumab falls under the category of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy which are novel agents that have more favorable side effect profiles compared to traditional chemotherapeutic agents. A review of the literature shows myocarditis with arrhythmias as a potentially rare side effect of ICI therapy. Corticosteroid therapy seems to be promising as a potential therapy.

Ventricular Arrhythmia in Cancer Patients: Mechanisms, Treatment Strategies and Future Avenues

Cardiovascular disease and cancer are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the US. Despite the significant progress made in cancer treatment leading to improved prognosis and survival, ventricular arrhythmias (VA) remain a known cardiovascular complication either exacerbated or induced by the direct and indirect effects of both traditional and novel cancer treatments. Although interruption of cancer treatment because of VA is rarely required, knowledge surrounding this issue is essential for optimising the overall care of patients with cancer. The mechanisms of cancer-therapeutic-induced VA are poorly understood. This review will discuss the ventricular conduction (QRS) and repolarisation abnormalities (QTc prolongation), and VAs associated with cancer therapies, as well as existing strategies for the identification, prevention and management of cancer-treatment-induced VAs.

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy in Cancer Patients Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Summary of Included Cases

BACKGROUND

There are emerging reports of Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) in cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs); however, the association of the two remains uncertain.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed in the PubMed database and web sources (Google Scholar) according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Case reports/series or studies including cancer patients treated with ICIs and presenting with TTS were considered.

RESULTS

Seventeen cases were included in the systematic review. Most patients were males (59%) with median age of 70 years (30-83). Most common tumor types were lung cancer (35%) and melanoma (29%). Most patients were on first-line immunotherapy (35%) and after the first cycle (54%) of treatment. The median time on immunotherapy at the time of TTS presentation was 77 days (1-450). The most used agents were pembrolizumab and the combination of nivolumab-ipilimumab (35%, respectively). Potential stressors were recognized in 12 cases (80%). Six patients (35%) presented with concurrent cardiac complications. Corticosteroids were used in the management of eight patients (50%). Fifteen patients (88%) recovered from TTS, two patients (12%) relapsed, and one patient died. Immunotherapy was reintroduced in five cases (50%).

CONCLUSION

TTS may be associated with immunotherapy for cancer. Physicians should be alert for TTS diagnosis in any patient with myocardial infarction-like presentation under treatment with ICIs.

Extensive CArdioVAscular Characterization and Follow-Up of Patients Receiving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Prospective Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

The increasing use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in the treatment of both advanced and early stages of various malignancies has resulted in a substantial increase in the incidence of cardiovascular (CV) immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The current follow-up guidelines are based on anecdotal evidence and expert opinions, due to a lack of solid data and prospective studies. As many questions remain unanswered, cardiac monitoring, in patients receiving ICIs, is not always implemented by oncologists. Hence, an urgent need to investigate the possible short- and long-term CV effects of ICIs, as ICI approval is continuing to expand to the (neo)adjuvant setting.

METHODS

We have initiated a prospective, multicenter study, i.e., the CAVACI trial, in which a minimum of 276 patients with a solid tumor, eligible for ICI treatment, will be enrolled. The study consists of routine investigations of blood parameters (troponin and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels, in particular) and a thorough CV follow-up (electrocardiograms, transthoracic echocardiograms, and coronary calcium scoring) at fixed time points for a total period of two years. The primary endpoint is the cumulative incidence of troponin elevation in the first three months of ICI treatment, compared to baseline levels. Furthermore, secondary endpoints include incidence above the upper limit of normal of both troponin and NT-proBNP levels, evolution in troponin and NT-proBNP levels, the incidence of CV abnormalities/major adverse cardiac events, evaluation of associations between patient characteristics/biochemical parameters and CV events, transthoracic echocardiography parameters, electrocardiography parameters, and progression of coronary atherosclerosis. Recruitment of patients started in January 2022. Enrolment is ongoing in AZ Maria Middelares, Antwerp University Hospital, AZ Sint-Vincentius Deinze, and AZ Sint-Elisabeth Zottegem.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05699915, registered 26 January 2023.

A case of subclinical immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated myocarditis in non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been widely used in the treatment of cancer. Moreover, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) have become a new clinical challenge. ICI-associated myocarditis is a rare but fatal condition among diverse organ injuries, and early recognition and effective interventions are critical for patients.

CASE PRESENTATION

In this report, we present the case of a healthy 60-year-old male who was diagnosed with lung squamous cell carcinomas following chemotherapy and received ICIs. The patient presented with asymptomatic cardiac biomarker elevation followed by immune-related myocarditis. Fortunately, the patient achieved a good clinical result after receiving high-dose steroids. The treatment with ICIs was discontinued because of recurrent increases in troponin T.

CONCLUSION

ICI-mediated associated myocarditis is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening adverse event. The current data suggest that clinicians need to be cautious about reinitiation in low-grade patients; however, further study of the diagnosis and treatment is necessary.

Myocarditis associated with immune-checkpoint inhibitors diagnosed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging

Myocarditis associated with immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is a rare, but critical adverse event. Although endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) is the standard for diagnosis of myocarditis, there is a possibility of false negatives due to sampling errors and local nonavailability of EMB, which may hamper the appropriate diagnosis of myocarditis. Therefore, an alternative criterion based on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) combined with clinical presentation has been proposed, but not emphasized sufficiently. We report a case of myocarditis after ICIs administration, which was diagnosed using CMRI in a 48-year-old male with lung adenocarcinoma. CMRI provides an opportunity to diagnose myocarditis during cancer treatment.

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Associated Myocarditis and Cardiomyopathy: A Translational Review

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized oncology and transformed the treatment of various malignancies. By unleashing the natural immunological brake of the immune system, ICIs were initially considered an effective, gentle therapy with few side effects. However, accumulated clinical knowledge reveals that ICIs are associated with inflammation and tissue damage in multiple organs, leading to immune-related adverse effects (irAEs). Most irAEs involve the skin and gastrointestinal tract; however, cardiovascular involvement is associated with very high mortality rates, and its underlying pathomechanisms are poorly understood. Ranging from acute myocarditis to chronic cardiomyopathies, ICI-induced cardiotoxicity can present in various forms and entities. Revealing the inciting factors, understanding the pathogenesis, and identifying effective treatment strategies are needed to improve the care of tumor patients and our understanding of the immune and cardiovascular systems.