Immune checkpoint inhibitor-related chronic pneumonitis: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-related chronic pneumonitis is rare. Limited information is available on the characteristics of this condition. Herein, we present the case of a 54-year-old man with recurrent severe ICI-related pneumonitis. The patient developed fever and dyspnea during both episodes of pneumonitis. He had been previously diagnosed with gastric signet ring cell carcinoma and was undergoing treatment with an anti-PD-1 combination chemotherapy regimen. We reviewed previous case reports of ICI-related pneumonitis according to the primary cancer, time of onset in relation to ICI therapy and chest imaging findings. ICI-related pneumonitis can progress to chronic pneumonitis. Repeated computed tomography imaging showing lung changes in the same location may help to make the diagnosis.

Keywords: case report; chest imaging; gastric signet ring cell carcinoma; immune checkpoint inhibitor; immune-related adverse events; immunotherapy; pneumonitis; steroid treatment.