A Case Report of Steroid Responsive Nivolumab-Induced Encephalitis

Kaja Richard1, Jacqueline Weslow1, Stephanie L Porcella1

  • 11 Department of Internal Medicine, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA.

Insights

Nivolumab, an immunotherapy for lung cancer, can rarely cause immune-related encephalitis. Early recognition and steroid treatment are crucial for managing this rare side effect and preventing severe neurotoxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Immunotherapy
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Nivolumab (Opdivo) is approved for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and may be used in other cancers.
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors like nivolumab can cause immune-related encephalitis in 1-3% of cases.
  • Nivolumab-induced encephalitis necessitates early detection and management to reduce morbidity and mortality.

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