Anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) therapies represent a novel approach to cancer treatment via disruption of
immune tolerance to antigens located on tumor cells. Disruption of immune tolerance, however, may occur at a cost. A host
of immune related adverse events (IRAEs) are associated with anti-CTLA-4 therapy. Autoimmune hypophysitis has been reported
in up to 17% of patients with melanoma and renal cell carcinoma treated with this therapy. Familiarity with the spectrum of
IRAEs connected to these therapies is paramount for endocrinologists, oncologists and those involved in the care of these
subjects. We review here key aspects of diagnosis and treatment of anti-CTLA-4 antibody therapy resultant IRAEs. We describe
the first two cases of hypopituitarism in prostate cancer subjects undergoing experimental therapy with ipilimumab. The clinical
evidence strongly suggests that the prostate cancer subjects developed autoimmune hypophysitis as a consequence of anti-CTLA-4
treatment. High dose glucocorticoid treatment resulted in markedly improved symptoms, and resolution of focal symptoms and
diabetes insipidus. One subject recovered pituitary-thyroid axis function after 9 months; however, both continue to require
GC replacement. These cases highlight the importance of early screening and treatment for hypopituitarism in all subjects
undergoing treatment with anti-CTLA-4 therapy to prevent a potentially fatal outcome from secondary adrenal insufficiency,
a readily treatable disease. We recommend mandatory long term follow-up to monitor the development of other hormonal deficits.
Keywords Lymphocytic hypophysitis - Autoimmune hypophysitis - Drug-induced hypophysitis - Hypopituitarism - Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 - Prostate cancer - Immune related adverse events (IRAEs)