AUTHOR=Kachlik Zofia , Błażewicz Izabela , Ciarka Aleksandra , Nowicki Roman J. 

TITLE=Case report: Lichenoid eruption under immunotherapy with MK-4830 and pembrolizumab in a breast cancer patient

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Pharmacology

VOLUME=Volume 15 - 2024

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1445685

DOI=10.3389/fphar.2024.1445685

ISSN=1663-9812

ABSTRACT=Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment, yet they can induce immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including cutaneous toxicities such as lichenoid eruptions. Pembrolizumab, a PD-1 inhibitor, is known for its association with lichen-planus-like reactions, while the side effect profile of combining immunotherapy with MK-4830, a novel fully human IgG4 monoclonal antibody that targets ILT-4, remains limited.We present a case of a 47-year-old female with metastatic breast cancer who developed a grade 2 Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) lichenoid reaction after nine months of MK-4830 and pembrolizumab use. Confluent, erythematous papules with Wickham's striae appeared predominantly on the extremities. Initial therapy with high-potency topical corticosteroids proved insufficient, however prednisone 40 mg daily resulted in satisfactory remission of lichenplanus-like reaction, permitting continued immunotherapy without dosage adjustment.This case highlights the novel occurrence of lichenoid eruption induced by MK-4830 and pembrolizumab in breast cancer treatment. Management of such irAEs involves individualized approaches based on severity and patient response.The patient was successfully treated with oral prednisone, which controlled the skin symptoms without interrupting ICI therapy. We emphasize that early diagnosis and treatment of low-grade lichenoid eruption can prevent the cessation of ICIs, thereby combining the benefits of managing irAEs and avoiding cancer progression, leading to a better long-term prognosis. Given the potential impact on cancer progression, careful consideration of treatment continuation versus discontinuation is essential, with an emphasis on maintaining therapeutic benefits while managing adverse events. Further research is warranted to elucidate the  underlying mechanisms and optimize management strategies for irAEs associated with novel immunotherapeutic agents.