ABSTRACT Background Durvalumab is a PD‐L1 inhibitor that triggers a blockade resulting in enhanced anti‐tumor responses related to increased T‐cell activation. There is potential for numerous immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) with this treatment, most of which have been shown to be effectively managed with high‐dose steroids. Immunotherapy‐related gastritis, while rare compared to other irAEs is an emerging concern as the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) increases. Case This case study examines a 66‐year‐old female with extensive‐stage small cell lung cancer (ES‐SCLC) treated with durvalumab, alongside chemotherapy. Twenty‐three months into treatment, she developed non‐specific gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms including abdominal pain, appetite loss, and significant weight loss. Despite conservative management, resolution only occurred following the use of high‐dose steroids, a finding consistent with immunotherapy‐related gastritis. The patient then went onto a successful rechallenge of immunotherapy. Conclusion This case represents the first report on the rare occurrence of immune‐related gastritis in an ES‐SCLC patient who has been on immunotherapy for nearly 2 years. Current literature is limited in the understanding of underlying mechanisms of PD‐L1‐related irAEs and optimal management strategies for rare toxicities like gastritis in immunotherapy‐treated cancer patients. This report aims to address the unmet need for further research on rare toxicities to immunotherapy in unique cases.
Michela Febbraro (Mon,) studied this question.