Checkpoint Inhibitor Induced Acute Liver Failure

J Investig Med High Impact Case Rep. 2024 Jan-Dec:12:23247096241261505. doi: 10.1177/23247096241261505.

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have become essential antineoplastic agents in medical oncology over the past decade. However, they are associated with potentially fatal multisystem abnormalities, with increasing concern in gastrointestinal tract and its associated organs. We present a patient with advanced renal cell carcinoma, who presented with acute liver failure after the first dose of combined immunotherapy with nivolumab and ipilimumab. A thorough evaluation for viral, metabolic, and autoimmune causes was unremarkable. He was managed with steroids and made significant improvement. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of acute liver failure following ipilimumab and nivolumab.

Keywords: acute liver failure; immune checkpoint inhibitor; ipilimumab; nivolumab.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors* / adverse effects
  • Ipilimumab* / adverse effects
  • Kidney Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Liver Failure, Acute* / chemically induced
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nivolumab* / adverse effects

Substances

  • Nivolumab
  • Ipilimumab
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors