Can immune checkpoint inhibitors cause inflammation?

Yes. Along with common side effects like rash, diarrhea, and fatigue, immune checkpoint inhibitors can cause rarer side effects that involve widespread inflammation.

Because these drugs free up the immune system, that stronger immune response can sometimes affect healthy organs. Depending on which organ is affected, inflammation can lead to:

• skin changes, rash, and itching (skin)
• cough and chest pains (lungs)
• belly pain and diarrhea (colon)
• diabetes (pancreas)
• hepatitis (liver)
• problems with the pituitary gland, heart muscle, kidneys, or thyroid
• nervous system problems such as muscle weakness, numbness, and trouble breathing

Doctors and nurses cannot know for sure when or if these side effects will happen or how serious they will be. That is why it is important to know the warning signs and to tell your care team quickly if you notice new symptoms.