Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorders Associated with Cancer Immunotherapy

Abstract

Novel immunotherapy drugs have changed the landscape of cancer medicine. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor T cells are being used and investigated in almost all types of cancers. Immune-related adverse events have been associated with immunotherapies. AKI has been the most commonly associated kidney adverse event. In this review, we showcase the several associated electrolyte disorders seen with immunotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors can lead to hyponatremia by several mechanisms, with the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis being the most common. Endocrine causes of hyponatremia are rare. Hypokalemia is not uncommon and is associated with both proximal and distal renal tubular acidosis. Hypercalcemia associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors has led to some interesting observations, including immune checkpoint inhibitor–induced parathyroid hormone–related peptide production, sarcoid-like granulomas, and hyperprogression of the disease. Hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia may be seen with immune checkpoint inhibitor–induced tumor lysis syndrome. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy–associated electrolyte disorders are also common. This is associated chiefly with hyponatremia, although other electrolyte abnormalities can occur. Early recognition and prompt diagnosis may help providers manage the mechanistically varied and novel electrolyte disorders associated with immunotherapy.