The knowledge and management of steroid side effects for head and neck cancer oncology treatment physician

Abstract

Nivolumab was approved for platinum refractory recurrent and metastatic head and neck carcinoma in 2017. Pembrolizumab as first-line treatment for recurrent and metastatic head and neck carcinoma was reported in 2019 and it is predicted that the first-line treatment will change. Many immune-related adverse events were reported by immune checkpoint inhibitors. Therefore, we should start administering steroid to control inflam-mation and severe IrAE. In addition, some patients should be put on steroid for a long time because of anti-inflammation. Furthermore, when cisplatin, which is one of the key drugs for head and neck cancer, is adminis-tered, steroid can prevent delayed nausea. Here, we review the important points and observations on the use of steroid against irAE.