Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Cytokine Release Syndrome in Novel Cancer Therapies: Strategies for Oncology Pharmacists

This activity was originally broadcast as part of the 2023 Directions in Oncology Pharmacy conference.

Program Description
Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is a systemic inflammatory response driven by the release of inflammatory cytokines due to immune activation. The implementation of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell and bispecific antibody therapies is changing survival outcomes; however, these therapies confer risks of potentially life-threatening toxicities, such as CRS. Therefore, mitigation of adverse effects through early recognition and effective management of CRS is key to preventing treatment morbidity and mortality. As drug experts, oncology pharmacists can provide patient and staff education, assist with policy development of CRS management protocols, and help appropriately monitor and manage CRS-related toxicities. This activity will provide pharmacists with knowledge to differentiate the signs and symptoms associated with CRS, manage adverse effects based on current national guidelines, and identify the pharmacist’s role in the interprofessional team.

Target audience: Oncology pharmacists
Type of activity: Application
Release date: November 22, 2023
Expiration date: November 22, 2024
Learner level: Foundational, intermediate
Time to complete activity: 1.0 hour
Fee: Free

Educational Objectives

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Explain the signs and symptoms of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and how they may differ depending on the class of cancer therapy
• Develop strategies to identify early signs of CRS and appropriate management plans based on the severity of the reaction in patients receiving novel immunotherapies
• Identify potential areas of collaboration among health care professionals in the management of CRS