Pembrolizumab-induced autoimmune encephalitis in a patient with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A case report

Niki,Maiko; Nakaya,Aya; Kurata,Takayasu; Nakahama,Kahori; Yoshioka,Hiroshige; Kaneda,Toshihiko; Kibata,Kayoko; Ogata,Makoto; Nomura,Shosaku

doi:10.3892/mco.2018.1777

February-2019 Volume 10 Issue 2

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February-2019 Volume 10 Issue 2

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Case Report

Pembrolizumab-induced autoimmune encephalitis in a patient with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A case report

Authors:
- Maiko Niki
- Aya Nakaya
- Takayasu Kurata
- Kahori Nakahama
- Hiroshige Yoshioka
- Toshihiko Kaneda
- Kayoko Kibata
- Makoto Ogata
- Shosaku Nomura
View Affiliations / Copyright

Affiliations: First Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan
Pages: 267-269
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Published online on: November 27, 2018

https://doi.org/10.3892/mco.2018.1777
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Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have markedly changed lung cancer treatment and improved overall survival. However, immune checkpoint inhibitors may be associated with various adverse events, including encephalitis, although this complication is rare. We herein describe the clinical characteristics of a case of immune checkpoint inhibitor‑induced encephalitis and its management. A 51‑year‑old man with squamous non‑small cell lung cancer was receiving pembrolizumab treatment when he suddenly displayed an altered level of consciousness. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed elevated lymphocyte count and autoimmune encephalitis was suspected. The patient was promptly started on steroids and his consciousness immediately improved. Pembrolizumab treatment was discontinued; however, stable disease was maintained. In conclusion, encephalitis is a rare but possibly fatal adverse event of immune checkpoint inhibitors, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are mandatory.

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Journals

International Journal of Molecular Medicine

International Journal of Oncology

Molecular Medicine Reports

Oncology Reports

Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine

Oncology Letters

Biomedical Reports

Molecular and Clinical Oncology

World Academy of Sciences Journal

International Journal of Functional Nutrition

International Journal of Epigenetics

Medicine International

Pembrolizumab-induced autoimmune encephalitis in a patient with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A case report

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