Pathogenesis, pathological characteristics and individualized therapy for immune-related adverse effects

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a class of antitumor medications that target immune checkpoints, which induce the activation of lymphocytes. These treatments effectively prolong the survival of patients with advanced tumors, especially lung cancer. However, in addition to tumor killing effects, ICIs may also cause an imbalance between immune tolerance and immunity. Over-activated lymphocytes may cause various types of damage to multiple organs throughout the body, called immune-related adverse events. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis, pathological characteristics, biomarkers, and therapeutic agents for immune-related adverse events.