Immune checkpoint inhibitors: a narrative review of considerations for the anaesthesiologist

Abstract

Immunotherapy has revolutionised the treatment of oncologic malignancies. Immune checkpoint inhibitors represent a new class of immunotherapy drugs. Although these drugs show promise, they are associated with immune-related adverse reactions. An increasing number of patients who undergo surgery will have had treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this narrative review article, we discuss their mechanism of action, therapeutic effects, pertinent toxicities, and address specific perioperative considerations for patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Keywords: adverse events; anaesthesia; cancer; complications; immune checkpoint inhibitors; immunotherapy; perioperative management; side effects.