Certain anticancer agents, specifically VEGF(R) inhibitors, may induce arthritis, although this adverse effect remains inadequately characterised.

This is according to a study in Communications Medicine.

This study sought to systematically evaluate the incidence, risk factors, and underlying mechanisms of this condition.

Analyses of international pharmacovigilance data, post-treatment inflammatory markers in patients, and murine model experiments collectively demonstrated an elevated arthritis risk associated with these therapeutics, particularly among females and individuals under 65 years of age.

Increased inflammatory responses were observed clinically, and activation of pro-inflammatory pathways in bone tissue was confirmed experimentally.

These findings provide important mechanistic insights and contribute to the development of improved strategies for the prevention and management of this treatment-related adverse event, ultimately enhancing oncology care safety.

Source: FAR Publishing Limited