A case report of immune-related pneumonitis after combined treatment of non small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Immunotherapy is the most promising method in the treatment of lung cancer, especially in connection with the rapidly growing development of monoclonal antibodies aimed at inhibiting immune checkpoints: anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1, anti-PD-L1. Classic immuno-mediated adverse events that occur with this method of treatment can affect several organs, including the lungs. Pneumonitis is a potentially life-threatening complication and often requires rapid treatment with high doses of corticosteroids and antibacterial drugs. We present the case of a 67-year-old patient with primary multiple malignant tumors of the larynx and left lung after combined treatment and incomplete treatment with Nivolumab, complicated by immuno-mediated pneumonitis. This report highlights the importance of treating patients with contraindications to chemotherapy when specific antitumor treatment is required, as well as timely detection of a rare but dangerous adverse event: immuno-mediated pneumonitis that occurs during treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Thus, knowing the frequency of adverse events when using PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors, as well as the possible presence of comorbidities in patients, will make it easier for doctors to make informed decisions in the treatment of patients, and understanding the interaction of the tumor and the immune system will help determine the best predictors of response and further improve the results of treatment of patients with NSCLC.

Keywords

• non small cell lung cancer
• pneumonitis
• immune checkpoint inhibitors
• pd-1
• nivolumab
• case report
• immune related adverse events