Cutaneous Anguillulosis During Immunotherapy for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

Immunotherapy has been widely applied to treat metastatic renal cell cancer patients. Managing the side effects of immunotherapy can be a challenge. Here, we describe a rare presentation of cutaneous anguillulosis during immunotherapy. The patient experienced a rash eruption after receiving immunotherapy for metastatic renal cell cancer. The diagnosis of skin toxicity caused by immunotherapy was rejected after the failure of treatment by cortisone. The travelling history and a laboratory test confirmed the presence of anguillulosis infection. A diagnosis of cutaneous anguillulosis was established. Satisfactory treatment with ivermectin was achieved for cutaneous lesions. Immunotherapy was restored without any skin symptoms. We suggested the possible mechanism of cutaneous demonstration of immune inflammatory syndrome during the immunotherapy of a cancer patient with parasitic infection. It was concluded that a comprehensive search for previous infectious pathogens should be performed to ensure a correct diagnosis and timely treatment.