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Published on: September 3, 2020
Keeping immune checkpoint inhibitor myocarditis in check: advanced circulatory mechanical support as a bridge to
Ashley F Stein-Merlob1, Jeffrey J Hsu1,2, Bradley Colton3
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, MD 650 Charles E. Young Dr. South, A2-27 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
Insights
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) myocarditis is a rare but serious immunotherapy side effect. Aggressive treatment, including mechanical support, can lead to recovery in severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Immunology
- Oncology
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) like nivolumab have revolutionized cancer treatment.
- However, ICIs can cause immune-related adverse events, including myocarditis.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old female with colorectal cancer developed cardiomyopathy, cardiogenic shock, and ventricular arrhythmias after nivolumab treatment.
- This presentation indicated fulminant ICI-associated myocarditis.
Findings:
- The patient required advanced mechanical circulatory support.
- Aggressive immunosuppression and intensive supportive care were crucial for management.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for prompt diagnosis and aggressive management of ICI myocarditis.
- Effective hemodynamic support and immunosuppression are vital for improving outcomes in fulminant cases.
Abstract:
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-associated myocarditis is a rare, potentially life-threatening complication of immunotherapy. We report a case of a 60-year-old female with a history of colorectal cancer treated with nivolumab immunotherapy who presented with new cardiomyopathy complicated by cardiogenic shock and ventricular arrhythmias. Treatment of ICI-associated myocarditis requires aggressive immunosuppression and supportive therapy. In this case, the patient required advanced mechanical circulatory support as a bridge to recovery. This case highlights the complexity of diagnosis, haemodynamic management, and treatment of fulminant ICI myocarditis.
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