A Case of Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis Associated With Dual Nivolumab and Ipilimumab Immunotherapy Treatment

Cureus. 2023 Jun 22;15(6):e40792. doi: 10.7759/cureus.40792. eCollection 2023 Jun.

Abstract

Nivolumab and ipilimumab are immunotherapy agents used in combination to treat metastatic melanoma and have proven to be efficacious. However, they have been linked to the development of immune-mediated inflammatory processes in various organ systems and tissues, including immune-mediated pneumonitis (IMP). This case report describes a 50-year-old female patient with metastatic melanoma who was treated with nivolumab and ipilimumab therapy and developed IMP as a complication. Despite treatment with steroids and infliximab, the patient's condition worsened, and she passed away due to respiratory compromise. This report emphasizes the potential for serious complications in patients receiving combination immunotherapy and highlights the importance of close monitoring and risk stratification, particularly in patients with underlying lung conditions.

Keywords: complications; immune mediated pneumonitis; immunotherapy; ipilimumab; metastatic melanoma treatment; nivolumab; opdivo; yervoy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports