[Specific adverse events caused by monoclonal antibodies, focusing on the prophylaxis and management]

Abstract

Monoclonal antibodies play important roles in medical oncology. The antibodies were designed as specific molecular targeting drugs and supposed to have less toxicity to normal cells compared to classical cytotoxic agents. Indeed, they do not have severe bone marrow suppression, nausea, or vomiting unlike cytotoxic drugs. On the other hand, clinicians often undergo characteristic adverse events we have never experienced before the appearance of the molecular targeting drugs. To fully utilize these powerful yet particular medicines, we have to be well aware of their severe or fatal adverse events and comprehend how to manage those toxic events. In this manuscript, important adverse events including infusion reaction, gastrointestinal perforation, cardiotoxicity, venous thromboembolism, and interstitial lung disease are subjects for discussion.