Occurrence of Fatal Tubulopathy in an Old, Fit Patient Receiving Nivolumab and Ipilimumab for Metastatic Melanoma: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has revolutionized cancer treatment, and their application to older people is considered safe by the scientific community. However, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) remain common, and their management poses significant challenges, especially in this population.

Case presentation: We report the case of a fit 82-year-old woman who developed immune-mediated colitis and Fanconi syndrome during treatment with ipilimumab and nivolumab for metastatic melanoma. Treatment consisted of discontinuation of immunotherapy, use of systemic corticosteroids, and second-line immunosuppressants. Despite well-managed treatment, the patient did not recover and died from a gastrointestinal infection.

Conclusion: Although studies have shown identical efficacy and safety in younger patients compared to older patients, the consequences of irAEs can potentially be more serious in the older population. The fatal outcome despite well-managed treatment highlights the need to identify predictive factors of immunotherapy-related adverse events in the older population.

Keywords: Case report; Elderly; Fanconi syndrome; Immune checkpoint inhibitors; Melanoma.