Experiences of Cutaneous Immune-Related Adverse Events: A Qualitative Study in Patients With Cancer Receiving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Abstract

Background: Cutaneous immune-related adverse events (cirAEs) represent a prevalent manifestation of adverse reactions linked to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy, substantially affecting patients’ quality of life.

Objective: To describe the symptomatic experience of cirAEs in patients with cancer receiving ICIs.

Design: Qualitative interviews on experiences were conducted from the perspective of patients with cancer.

Methods: A purposive sample of 18 patients with cirAEs participated in this semistructured interview. Transcripts were entered into Nvivo 11.0. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data for significant statements and phrases, which were organized into themes and subthemes.

Results: Three main themes were identified in the data: (i) multiple emotions coexist, affecting the quality of life; (ii) insufficient coping capacity for cirAEs management; and (iii) exploring needs and expectations for management with cirAEs.

Conclusions: The results of this study enable healthcare providers to better understand and empathize with the patient’s experience, to truly practice the essence of patient-centered care, and to provide a basis for the development of standardized symptom management programs in the future.

Implications for Clinical Practice: To strengthen patient education by clarifying knowledge of cirAEs and providing evidence-based coping strategies, formulate personalized management plans supported by multidisciplinary collaboration when necessary, establish standardized symptom management protocols incorporating regular monitoring and dynamic strategy adjustments, and promote patient participation in decision-making while building support networks to enhance self-efficacy, thereby laying the foundation for future standardized management protocols through patient-centered integrated management approaches.