Immunotherapy-induced Pneumonitis: A Review of Diagnostic Workup and Treatment Guidelines

Abstract

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide; however, new developments in treatment, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors, have demonstrated improved progression-free survival. Unfortunately, these medications are not without side effects, including the potentially life-threatening side effect of immune-related pneumonitis. There are a paucity of data with regard to risk factors and diagnostic criteria, leading to a complicated diagnostic dilemma for providers. In addition, guidelines as regards treatment and reinitiation of therapy are sparse at best. Both these factors lead to significant uncertainty in regard to this disease entity. As use of immune checkpoint inhibitors increases, more and more clinicians will be faced with this diagnostic and treatment quandary. Here, we review the current diagnostic and treatment guidelines for immune-related pneumonitis and shed light on future research directions.