Work

Concurrent Thyroiditis and Hypophysitis in a Patient Receiving Dual Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy for Metastatic Melanoma

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), particularly when used in combination regimens, are associated with a broad range of immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including endocrinopathies. We present a case of a 53-year-old male patient with metastatic melanoma treated with a combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab who developed concurrent thyroiditis and hypophysitis. Although this co-occurrence is uncommon, it is clinically significant. A key learning point from this case is the importance of accurate interpretation of laboratory findings. Our patient was transitioning from the hyperthyroid phase of subacute thyroiditis to hypothyroidism and simultaneously developed central hypothyroidism due to hypophysitis. This overlap created a diagnostic challenge that could have been misinterpreted without careful correlation of the laboratory findings, a solid understanding of how ICIs can cause diverse endocrinopathies, and awareness of the typical phases of thyroiditis. Clinical context played a critical role in correctly identifying concurrent thyroiditis and central hypothyroidism due to hypophysitis. This case highlights the importance of timely recognition of ICI-induced endocrinopathies and careful interpretation of labs, especially when multiple endocrinopathies coexist.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.89689

Authors: Hima Darapu, Aryn E Kormanis

Institutions: Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Wake Forest University

Language: English

Topic: Cancer Immunotherapy and Biomarkers

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413237620