Pembrolizumab Associated Autoimmune Diabetes Mellitus: Case Series

Abstract

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors is increasing every day. With such frequent use, the side effects and management associated with these treatments are becoming difficult. One of rare side effects is autoimmune diabetes mellitus. In this review, we will discuss two cases of pembrolizumab-associated diabetes mellitus treated in our clinic and those reported in the literature. Most of the reported cases presented with diabetic ketoacidosis and they were on insulin therapy. The relationship between diabetes and immune checkpoint inhibitors needs to be clarified.

Keywords

• autoimmune diabetes
• intensive insulin therapy
• immunotherapy-related adverse events
• cancer immunotherapy
• pembrolizumab induced diabetes mellitus