Autoimmune hypophysitis secondary to therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors: Four cases describing the clinical heterogeneity of central endocrine dysfunction

Abstract

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are becoming increasingly important in oncology. Immune-related adverse events, including autoimmune hypophysitis, have been reported before.

Case report

We present a case series of three males and one female, suffering from either malignant melanoma or renal cell carcinoma, who developed hypophysitis under Nivolumab and/or Ipilimumab. A wide range of clinical manifestations from asymptomatic hypophysitis, headache, general weakness, loss of appetite, visual field impairment, and confusion to acute life-threatening Addison crisis was observed.

Management and outcome: All patients received corticosteroids. Immune checkpoint inhibitors were discontinued in three cases until resolution of symptoms.

Discussion

The objective of our report is to raise the awareness of physicians, regarding this rare clinical entity, which may become life-threatening, if not promptly recognized and properly treated.