Understanding cytokine release syndrome

The cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is an uncontrolled systemic infammatory reaction that can become life-threatening. It is most commonly observed following administration of immune-based biotherapeutics. As illustrated by the recent approval of several novel immunotherapeutics, e.g., pembrolizumab and tisagenlecleucel, immuno-oncology has emerged as a rapidly growing subspecialty. Many of these immunotherapeutic drugs are associated with a high risk of CRS. As a result of the growing use of these agents there will be an increase in patients presenting with severe CRS (sCRS). Intensive care specialists therefore should be familiar with the management of this condition.