Science and Research

Pneumonitis in Irradiated Lungs After Nivolumab: A Brief Communication and Review of the Literature

Nivolumab is a feasible therapy option in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who progress on first-line treatment. However, there is limited information about an overlapping toxicity of PD-1 inhibitors when administered following thoracic radiotherapy (TRT). Three of 25 patients with advanced NSCLC were treated with palliative or curative intent. Nivolumab was initiated as second or third-line therapy after TRT for recurrent or progressive disease. All 3 patients developed grade 3 pneumonitis at some point during nivolumab therapy. Herein, we describe 3 cases of pneumonitis in patients with NSCLC started on nivolumab following TRT. Imaging analysis was strongly consistent with heterogenous lung parenchyma changes in the irradiated lung volume receiving a total dose of 15-20 Gy. Pulmonary toxicity was manageable; however, interruption of immunotherapy was necessary.

  • Manapov, F.
  • Roengvoraphoj, O.
  • Dantes, M.
  • Marschner, S.
  • Li, M.
  • Eze, C.
Publication details
DOI: 10.1097/CJI.0000000000000198
Journal: Journal of immunotherapy (Hagerstown, Md. : 1997)
Pages: 96-99 
Number: 2
Work Type: Review
Location: CPC-M
Disease Area: LC
Partner / Member: LMU
Access-Number: 29200082
See publication on PubMed


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