Endocrine Abstracts

Cancer therapies, including chemotherapy, radiation, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and targeted agents, can lead to significant endocrine dysfunctions, impacting patient outcomes and quality of life. Endocrinopathies such as hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, diabetes, hypophysitis, and hypogonadism are frequently observed, necessitating early detection and comprehensive management. Thyroid dysfunction, commonly triggered by radiation and ICIs, requires regular thyroid function monitoring and appropriate levothyroxine replacement. Immune-related hypophysitis, often associated with CTLA-4 inhibitors, necessitates hormone replacement, including glucocorticoids, to prevent adrenal crisis. Similarly, ICI-induced adrenalitis warrants prompt glucocorticoid therapy, with stress dosing during acute illness. Cancer therapy-related diabetes, particularly from ICIs and glucocorticoid use, may require insulin therapy and close glucose monitoring. Hypogonadism, resulting from chemotherapy, radiation, or androgen deprivation therapy, should be assessed with hormonal evaluations and managed with hormone replacement where appropriate. Additionally, osteoporosis is a concern in patients receiving androgen deprivation or aromatase inhibitors, necessitating bone mineral density monitoring and interventions such as bisphosphonates or denosumab. Effective management of therapy-induced endocrinopathies involves a multidisciplinary approach integrating oncologists, endocrinologists, and primary care providers. Regular endocrine assessments, individualized hormone replacement, and patient education play pivotal roles in optimizing long-term outcomes. As cancer survival rates improve, proactive identification and management of these endocrine complications are essential to enhancing patient well-being and treatment success.