Cardiac Challenges in Immune Checkpoint Therapy: Complete Heart Block With Pembrolizumab

Cureus. 2024 Mar 30;16(3):e57244. doi: 10.7759/cureus.57244. eCollection 2024 Mar.

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment, yet they come with a spectrum of immune-related adverse events, including cardiac complications. We present the case of a 72-year-old male with metastatic renal cell carcinoma who developed complete heart block and ventricular arrhythmias following pembrolizumab therapy. Despite no evidence of myocarditis, the patient's condition rapidly deteriorated, ultimately resulting in his demise. This case underscores the critical need for vigilance in recognizing and managing potential cardiotoxicity associated with ICIs. Additionally, it highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in optimizing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

Keywords: complete heart block; immune check-point inhibitor; pacemaker; pembrolizumab; pembrolizumab side effect; renal cell carcinoma (rcc); ventricular tachycardia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports