Nivolumab-induced seronegative encephalitis

J Neuroimmunol. 2020 Oct 15:347:577350. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577350. Epub 2020 Aug 3.

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have emerged as a new therapeutic tool for numerous types of cancer. Neurological complications have been reported in 1% of patients who have undergone checkpoint inhibition therapy. ICIs-induced encephalitides occur in 0.1-0.2% of patients within weeks after ICIs initiation; are usually seronegative and have nonspecific changes on imaging, CSF and electroencephalogram (EEG) studies. Early recognition and prompt treatment are important to prevent significant morbidity and mortality. We present a case of nivolumab-induced encephalitis with very subtle clinical symptoms and full recovery following ICIs suspension and steroids.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Encephalitis / blood
  • Encephalitis / chemically induced*
  • Encephalitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Nivolumab / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Nivolumab