Anti-programmed-death-receptor-1 (PD-1) antibody (Pembrolizumab) induced pancreatitis diagnosed on 18F-FDG PET/CT

J Pak Med Assoc. 2024 Apr;74(4):825-826. doi: 10.47391/JPMA.24-31.

Abstract

Immunotherapy related adverse events are commonly seen with immune check point inhibitors therapy. We report the case of a 40-year-old female diagnosed with stage IVB endometroid grade III endometrial cancer, on pembrolizumab immunotherapy, an anti-programmed-death-receptor-1 (PD-1) antibody. Patient was referred for 18F-FDG PET/CT for restaging. 18F-FDG PET/CT demonstrated diffuse increased FDG uptake throughout the body of the pancreas associated with fat stranding in the peripancreatic region, suggestive of pembrolizumab-induced pancreatitis. The diagnosis was confirmed by elevated amylase and lipase levels. immune-related adverse events (irAE) are frequently identified on 18F-FDG PET-CT, which may lead to early diagnosis, close clinical follow-up, and appropriate clinical management of immune-related adverse events.

Keywords: 18F-FDG PET/CT; pembrolizumab; pancreatitis; anti-programmed-death-receptor-1 (PD-1) antibody..

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized* / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized* / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological* / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18*
  • Humans
  • Pancreatitis* / chemically induced
  • Pancreatitis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Pancreatitis* / immunology
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography* / methods
  • Radiopharmaceuticals