Successful rechallenge of alectinib after remission of severe alectinib-induced interstitial lung disease

Abstract

Introduction

Even though alectinib is a potent second-generation ALK inhibitor with a favorable safety profile, alectinib-induced interstitial lung disease (ILD) could be fatal. There are case reports described successful alectinib rechallenge in mild ILD. However, the feasibility and safety of rechallenge in severe cases remains to be elucidated.

Case report

A 76-year-old female was a case of stage IV lung adenocarcinoma harboring ALK rearrangement. Respiratory failure following severe ILD developed one month after alectinib administration. She received mechanical ventilation in intensive care uint. ILD subsided gradually after methylprednisolone pulse therapy and discontinuation of alectinib.

Management and outcome: After the recovery from ILD, the patient attempted a re-escalation of alectinib from a lower dose under close clinical and radiological monitoring. No ILD happened even after 480 days of alectinib rechallenge.

Discussion

Given that the ALK inhibitors are the treatment of choice for advanced lung cancer patients with ALK rearrangement. Our report demonstrated the potential feasibility of alectinib re-use in cases of severe druginduced ILD.