Infectious Considerations for Patients on Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Chronic inflammatory states lead to T cell exhaustion, characterized by reduced T cell proliferation and activity. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPI) reactivate T cells to restore the immune system’s natural defenses against foreign antigens. The widespread use of these agents in the treatment of malignancy has led to markedly reduced tumor burden and improved patient survival, sparking curiosity about their potential role in chronic inflammatory states, including infectious diseases. While ICPI have been associated with the development of several reactivated and opportunistic infections in patients with malignancy, recent studies also highlight the efficacy of these agents in managing infections alongside first-line antimicrobial therapy. Future research of ICPI should continue to build on our understanding of their infectious complications as well as their utility in preventing and treating infectious diseases.