The use of tacrolimus in the management of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy-induced hepatitis

Abstract

Immune-mediated hepatitis is recognised as a frequently occurring complication with the use of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy drugs. The mainstay of treatment involves the use of immunosuppressive agents, such as corticosteroids. Mycophenolate mofetil is added when steroid resistant. However, there are limited data to guide further management when the hepatitis remains refractory to these therapies. We present two patients who developed severe immunotherapy-induced hepatitis and required prolonged immunosuppressive therapy with three agents in combination before resolution was achieved. We demonstrate that the addition of tacrolimus can be successful when other drugs fail. We also illustrate how a subsequent wean off immunosuppression can be safely performed and highlight the use of concordant antimicrobial prophylaxis to mitigate against opportunistic infections.

Keywords: hepatitis; immunosuppression; immunotherapy; tacrolimus.