Virological Events During Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy: A Multi-Source Evaluation

Background/Objectives: Virological findings during immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy may represent viral loss of control, pre-existing infection, tumour biomarkers, or infection after immune-related adverse event (irAE)-directed immunosuppression. Distinguishing these possibilities is important for treatment and diagnostic decisions. We evaluated virus-specific patterns across complementary data sources.

Methods

We evaluated HBV, HCV, HIV, EBV, CMV, HSV, and VZV using FAERS disproportionality analysis (2011Q1–2026Q1), PubMed evidence mapping and appraisal, EBV endpoint verification, and review of ClinicalTrials.gov protocols by start era. Findings were interpreted in relation to prevention, monitoring, endpoint interpretation, and infectious mimic evaluation.