Complete color vision loss in a patient with metastatic melanoma of the skin treated with nivolumab-relatlimab

Abstract

Introduction

The combination nivolumab-relatlimab has demonstrated therapeutic benefits for patients with metastatic melanoma. However, its adverse effects can affect various organs, including the eye.

Case report

We present the case of an 80-year-old man who developed complete color blindness after the 2^nd dose of nivolumab-relatlimab for advanced cutaneous melanoma. He also had significant blurry vision. Fundoscopy identified bilateral serous macular detachment. Ocular coherence tomography confirmed serous infiltration within the macula. After a thorough investigation, causality assessment linked this retinal effect to nivolumab-relatlimab (probable relationship via Naranjo criteria).

Management and outcome

The patient was treated with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), rituximab, and plasmapheresis, with improvement in blurry vision. However, he continued to experience persistent absence of color perception (“black and white vision”) at a follow-up visit six months later.

Discussion/conclusion

Further studies are necessary to understand the exact pathophysiology of this process. We hypothesize that it involves direct toxicity to the photoreceptors or retinal ganglion cells, leading to irreversible color vision loss. Effective strategies for preventing this significant, life-changing toxic effect of nivolumab-relatlimab should be sought.