A Successful Case of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Atezolizumab Plus Bevacizumab with Multisystem Immune-related Adverse Events

Intern Med. 2022 Dec 1;61(23):3497-3502. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.9393-22. Epub 2022 Apr 30.

Abstract

A 63-year-old man with hepatitis C was treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab for unresectable diffuse hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). After four cycles of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab, the diffuse HCC markedly shrank; however, he complained of general fatigue, loss of appetite, and slight loss of muscle strength in the lower legs. He was diagnosed with isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency (IAD), hypothyroidism, and myopathy, suggesting multisystem immune-related adverse events (irAEs). After administration of hydrocortisone, the clinical symptoms rapidly disappeared. Patients with multisystem irAEs can have favorable outcomes; thus, to continue immune-checkpoint inhibitors therapy, a correct diagnosis and management of multisystem irAEs are important.

Keywords: atezolizumab; hepatocellular carcinoma; isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency; multisystem immune-related adverse effects.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Bevacizumab / adverse effects
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular* / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis C*
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Bevacizumab
  • atezolizumab
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized