Learning Objectives:
1. To review the mechanisms and potential side effects of immunotherapy agents.
2. To review the role of imaging in assessing the potential side effects.
3. To review the imaging findings of associated adverse events.
 
Background:
Immunotherapy is emerging as an effective tool in the fight against cancer. Using either a passive or active mechanism, immunotherapy aims to boost the immune system and aid a more effective response against tumour cells.
In doing this, potential complications can occur secondary to associated autoimmune or inflammatory responses and can affect multiple systems of the patient inclusive of respiratory, endocrine, gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal. Radiologist awareness of the potential complications is important to prevent misdiagnosis of disease progression, allow appropriate imaging to be performed where required in the acute setting and to aid early detection in the elective follow up setting. By detecting the potential adverse events early, treatment can be modified to reduce the severity and related morbidity.
Using a variety of imaging modalities inclusive of X-ray, Computed Tomography, MRI and PET imaging, we aim to highlight the potential adverse events associated with immunotherapy treatments at our centre.
 
Conclusion:
Immunotherapy treatments can lead to potential multi-systemic adverse events. Radiologist awareness of these may lead to early diagnosis and reduced associated morbidities.

A review of imaging of adverse events related to cancer immunotherapy treatments.