Successful re-introduction of alectinib after inducing interstitial lung disease in a patient with lung cancer

Abstract

Alectinib is a member of the family of anaplastic lymphoma kinase inhibitors. This agent is effective in the treatment of advanced anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive non-small cell lung cancer and has excellent blood–brain barrier penetrability. It is generally well tolerated; however, significant toxicities such as interstitial lung disease have been reported. We present herein an instance of interstitial lung disease four weeks into alectinib treatment. Alectinib was held, and the patient showed clinical and radiographic improvement of her interstitial lung disease. Alectinib was then resumed at half dosage without further complications. Prompt recognition of adverse reactions to this targeted agent is paramount. Cessation of therapy may be needed on a case-to-case basis. However, as our case highlights, safe re-introduction of alectinib can be accomplished in some cases.