Strongyloides-An uncommon cause of eosinophilia whilst on durvalumab

Cancer Rep (Hoboken). 2022 Oct;5(10):e1682. doi: 10.1002/cnr2.1682. Epub 2022 Jul 18.

Abstract

Background: In malignancy, eosinophils have been shown to play an important role in the tumour micro-environment. Increasingly, development of eosinophilia with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) use is thought to be predictive of prognosis and development of immune-related adverse events. However, there are many other causes for developing eosinophilia which can contribute to the difficulties in diagnosis and management.

Case: Here, we present a case of Strongyloides parasitic infection as an uncommon differential for eosinophilia in a patient with lung cancer receiving a PDL-1 ICI, durvalumab, in Australia.

Conclusion: This case highlights the complexities exploring the multiple potential causes of eosinophilia and the subsequent management, to allow safe continuation of ICI.

Keywords: Strongyloides; durvalumab; eosinophilia; immune checkpoint inhibitors; immunotherapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Eosinophilia* / chemically induced
  • Eosinophilia* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Strongyloides
  • Strongyloidiasis* / diagnosis

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • durvalumab