Unusual vasovagal-type autonomic dysfunction secondary to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy

BMJ Case Rep. 2023 Feb 20;16(2):e251034. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2022-251034.

Abstract

We present the case of a patient with oral squamous cell carcinoma treated with the programmed death ligand inhibitor, pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor. She subsequently developed vasovagal-type autonomic dysfunction thought to be secondary to the pembrolizumab. The patient's vasovagal symptoms resolved with the initiation of oral glucocorticoids.

Keywords: Cancer - see Oncology; Cancer intervention; Cardiovascular system.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms*
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Mouth Neoplasms*
  • Primary Dysautonomias*

Substances

  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors