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An autoimmune-based, paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome following checkpoint inhibition and concurrent radiotherapy for merkel cell carcinoma: case report
Identifier
029531
Type of Spiritual Experience
Background
A description of the experience
Strahlenther Onkol. 2020 Jan 31. doi: 10.1007/s00066-020-01582-3. [Epub ahead of print]
An autoimmune-based, paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome following checkpoint inhibition and concurrent radiotherapy for merkel cell carcinoma: case report.
Sherry AD1, Bezzerides M1, Khattab MH2, Luo G2, Ancell KK3, Kirschner AN4.
Author information
Abstract
PURPOSE:
Merkel cell carcinoma is highly sensitive to both radiation and immunotherapy. Moreover, concurrent radioimmunotherapy may capitalize on anti-tumor immune activity and improve Merkel cell treatment response, although an enhanced immune system may cross-react with native tissues and lead to significant sequelae.
METHODS:
Here we present a case study of a patient with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma treated with radiotherapy concurrent with pembrolizumab.
RESULTS:
After radioimmunotherapy, the patient developed sensory neuropathy, visual hallucinations, and mixed motor neuron findings. Neurologic dysfunction progressed to profound gastrointestinal dysmotility necessitating parenteral nutrition and intubation with eventual expiration.
CONCLUSION:
This case represents a unique autoimmune paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome, likely specific to neuroendocrine tumors and motivated by concurrent radioimmunotherapy. Recognition of the potential role of radioimmunotherapy may provide an advantage in anticipating these severe sequelae.
KEYWORDS:
Autoimmunity; Checkpoint inhibitor; Merkel cell carcinoma; Paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome; Radioimmunotherapy
PMID:
32006066
DOI:
10.1007/s00066-020-01582-3