Atezolizumab-Induced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome in a Patient with Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Atezolizumab is an anti-PD-L1 antibody used for advanced carcinomas.
• Cutaneous side effects are typically mild maculopapular rash in 20% of patients.
• Severe cutaneous adverse reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are not previously reported with anti-PD-L1 antibodies.

Observation:

• This report details a rare case of SJS/TEN induced by atezolizumab.
• The patient developed severe skin eruption requiring medical intervention.

Findings:

• Atezolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, can rarely induce severe cutaneous adverse reactions.
• This is the first reported case of SJS/TEN associated with atezolizumab and anti-PD-L1 antibodies.

Implications:

• Dermatologists should be aware of the potential for severe skin reactions with atezolizumab.
• Early recognition and management are crucial for patients receiving atezolizumab.
• This finding expands the known side effect profile of atezolizumab and immune checkpoint inhibitors.