Ileal perforation in the setting of atezolizumab immunotherapy for advanced bladder cancer

Can J Urol. 2018 Oct;25(5):9525-9526.

Abstract

Atezolizumab is a promising immunotherapy for advanced urothelial carcinoma. Like other immune checkpoint inhibitors, it can produce rare immune-related adverse events (IRAEs). Here we present the recent case of a patient with metastatic bladder cancer who developed diarrhea and abdominal pain months after beginning atezolizumab therapy. He presented to our institution with an ileal perforation secondary to atezolizumab-induced enterocolitis. After surgical repair, the patient's condition improved, and he was discharged. We discuss the management of atezolizumab-induced enterocolitis, including the importance of early recognition and intervention to prevent more devastating complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological / adverse effects*
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / secondary
  • Enterocolitis / chemically induced*
  • Enterocolitis / complications
  • Humans
  • Ileal Diseases / etiology*
  • Intestinal Perforation / etiology*
  • Male
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological
  • atezolizumab