Recognising immunotherapy-induced meningoencephalitis: a case during treatment for primary metastatic melanoma of the bladder neck

BMJ Case Rep. 2022 Jul 20;15(7):e249411. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2022-249411.

Abstract

Although novel immunotherapy has shown promise for patients with melanoma, a more activated state of the immune system may lead to adverse systemic effects. Immunotherapy-induced meningoencephalitis is a rare and seldom reported adverse effect of immunotherapy but with the expanding role of immunotherapy in cancer treatments it must be recognised. Patients receiving immunotherapy should receive a proper warning about the potential for this life-threatening condition. Herein, we report a patient in his 70s with neurological changes after his second treatment with dual immunotherapy for a primary metastatic melanoma of the bladder neck.

Keywords: Cancer intervention; Endocrine system; Malignant disease and immunosuppression; Medical management; Urological cancer.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions* / etiology
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Immunotherapy / adverse effects
  • Melanoma* / drug therapy
  • Meningoencephalitis* / chemically induced
  • Neoplasms, Second Primary* / etiology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Urinary Bladder / pathology

Substances

  • Immunologic Factors