Diabetes mellitus induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are widely used in oncology for their favourable antitumor efficacy. ICI therapy is associated with a unique toxicity profile known as immune-related adverse events (irAEs). One such irAE is ICI-related diabetes mellitus (DM), which is relatively uncommon but can become extremely severe, leading to irreversible impairment of β-cells, and even lead to death if not promptly recognised and properly managed. The precise mechanisms of ICI-related DM are not well understood. In this review, we summarise the clinical characteristics, pathophysiology, and management of this adverse effect caused by ICI therapy. Deeper investigation of ICI-related DM may contribute to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of classical type 1 DM.