Consecutive severe immune-related adverse events after PD-1 inhibitor induction and surgery in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a case report

Neoadjuvant PD-(L)1 inhibitors may be promising for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with potential pathological and survival benefits. But severe immune-related adverse events (irAEs) may cause fatal consequences which require early identification and timely intervention. The basis for most of these adverse events is a reactive hyperactivated T-cell response to normal tissues that results in the production of high levels of CD4 T-helper cell cytokines or increased migration of cytolytic CD8 T cells in normal tissues. It is recommended that all patients receiving PD-(L)1 inhibitors routinely have thyroid function studies, complete blood counts, and liver function and metabolic panels at each treatment and at intervals of 6 to 12 weeks for the first 6 months after finishing treatment. Herein, we report a rare case who had two grade 3–4 irAEs consecutively occurring after PD-1 induction therapy and surgery. A 59-year-old man with stage IIIA squamous cell lung cancer receiving 3 cycles of neoadjuvant nab-paclitaxel, carboplatin, and nivolumab was reevaluated for resectability. The patient experienced acute serum transaminase elevation right after induction therapy. Seven days after surgery he had severe pneumonia. These two serious complications were both eventually relieved by a month long treatment of corticosteroids but not regular medicine which verified the diagnosis of irAEs. Although results of clinical trials of neoadjuvant immunotherapy are worth expecting, our case calls attention to careful surveillance and timely management of irAEs during the perioperative use of PD-(L)1 inhibitors. We also further discuss the standard use of corticosteroids for irAEs based on a review of literature.