If a patient experiences Grade 3 immune-related adverse events (irAEs), what is the typical course of action?

When a patient experiences Grade 3 immune-related adverse events (irAEs) while undergoing immunotherapy, the typical and appropriate course of action is to hold the immune checkpoint inhibitors and administer high-dose corticosteroids. Grade 3 irAEs indicate a severe level of immunological response that requires prompt management to mitigate risks and avoid further complications.

High-dose corticosteroids are effective in dampening the immune response that is causing the adverse events. Corticosteroids act as anti-inflammatory agents and help to rapidly reduce the inflammation and effects of the immune response on the body. While continuing therapy could lead to exacerbation of the adverse events, and administering chemotherapy is not an appropriate response to irAEs, switching to a different immunotherapy may not address the immediate need to manage severe toxicity. Therefore, holding the current treatment and providing corticosteroids is essential for the safety and care of the patient.