Work

Immune-related adverse reactions across multiple systems in a non-small cell lung cancer patient induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors: a case report and literature review

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), while overlapping multi-system immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are life-threatening and pose great clinical challenges. Case Description: A 74-year-old male patient with stage IIIA lung squamous cell carcinoma developed bilateral ptosis, blurred vision, abnormal thyroid function, elevated muscle enzymes and cardiac biomarkers after two cycles of toripalimab combined with chemotherapy. He was diagnosed with ICI-induced myositis, myocarditis and thyroiditis. ICIs were discontinued immediately. Glucocorticoids, methimazole and levothyroxine were administered sequentially according to disease progression. The patient recovered well and underwent lobectomy successfully. Conclusion: Elderly individuals complicated with pre-existing cardiovascular diseases are susceptible to severe immune-related adverse events. Early identification of overlapping multi-system irAEs, timely drug withdrawal and standardized immunosuppressive therapy are essential. Endocrine-immune-related adverse reactions exhibit dynamic evolution; for instance, thyroid toxicity may progress from a hyperthyroid phase to hypothyroidism, necessitating individualized monitoring and replacement therapy according to different stages of thyroid function.

Source: Frontiers in Pharmacology

DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2026.1943059

Authors: Jing Li, Dan Wang, Lingli Zheng, Chaomin Liu, Ting Jiang

Institutions: Chengdu Medical College, First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College

Language: English

Topic: Cancer Immunotherapy and Biomarkers

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801