Case Report: Nasal swelling and ulceration as a unique immune-related cutaneous adverse event of atezolizumab in small cell lung cancer - Summary - MDSpire

Case Report: Nasal swelling and ulceration as a unique immune-related cutaneous adverse event of atezolizumab in small cell lung cancer

  • By

  • Junhui Yang

  • Xuemei Du

  • Hongyun Liu

  • Yueqin Hao

  • April 30, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Objective:

To report a rare immune-related cutaneous adverse event (ircAE) of nasal swelling and ulceration in a patient with small cell lung cancer treated with atezolizumab, highlighting its clinical significance.

Key Findings:
  • Nasal swelling and ulceration are extremely rare ircAEs associated with atezolizumab, necessitating awareness among clinicians.
  • Histopathological findings indicated an immune-mediated reaction rather than metastatic disease, underscoring the need for accurate diagnosis.
  • Discontinuation of atezolizumab and glucocorticoid treatment resulted in significant symptom improvement, demonstrating effective management strategies.
Interpretation:

This case highlights the importance of recognizing rare ircAEs in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors, which can prevent misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, urging clinicians to remain vigilant.

Limitations:
  • The rarity of the reported ircAE limits generalizability.
  • Lack of similar case reports in the literature makes it difficult to establish a broader context, emphasizing the need for further research.
Conclusion:

Clinicians should be aware of the potential for rare ircAEs like nasal ulceration in patients treated with atezolizumab, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and management to ensure timely intervention.

Original Source(s)

Related Content