Monoclonal antibody extravasations: Two case reports and literature review

Abstract

Introduction

Extravasation is a rare complication from intravenous chemotherapy administration. Literature about monoclonal antibody (MoAb) extravasations is scarce and also conflicting in how they are classified.

Case report

We reported two different cases of MoAb extravasations with cetuximab and nivolumab outcome respectively. The administration site appeared inflamed and patients did not report disturbances.

Management and outcome: Both extravasations did not require specific treatment. General unspecific measures suffice to properly manage these extravasations and no sequels were observed after long follow-up. Both patients received all further courses of MoAb without any adverse events.

Discussion

To our knowledge, we reported the first case-report of nivolumab extravasation in the literature. In addition, the cetuximab extravasation management and outcome was in accordance with previously published reports. Both MoAb may be considered as non-aggressive or neutral. We reviewed published information about MoAb extravasations. In conclusion, not all MoAb should be classified in the same category when extravasated and special precautions are warranted with conjugated MoAb and bevacizumab.