Immune checkpoint inhibitor-mediated colitis in gastrointestinal malignancies and inflammatory bowel disease

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have markedly changed the landscape of cancer therapy. By re-invigorating the immune system against tumors, ICI provide novel therapeutic options for a broad variety of malignancies, including many gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. However, these therapies can also induce autoimmune-like side effects in healthy tissue across the body. One of the most common of these side effects is ICI-mediated colitis and diarrhea (IMC). Here, we review the incidence and risk of IMC in ICI therapy, with a focus on what is known regarding IMC in patients with GI malignancies. We also discuss data available on the use of ICI and risk of IMC in patients with pre-existing inflammatory bowel disease, as these patients may have increased risk of IMC due to their underlying intestinal pathology.