Checkpoint immunotherapy can be a powerful treatment for cancer—but activating the immune system can sometimes cause it to attack healthy organs.

This video explains immune-related adverse events (irAEs), when they can occur, which organs may be affected, and why early recognition is essential. These toxicities can develop during treatment or even months and years after immunotherapy has been discontinued.

Recognizing symptoms early, evaluating competing diagnoses, grading toxicity, and involving the oncology team promptly can help patients receive appropriate care.