Mesenteric Panniculitis as a Side Effect of Nivolumab in a Patient with Larnyngeal Cancer

Abstract

Mesenteric panniculitis is rare, usually idiopathic, caused by inflammation of the fatty tissue of the mesentery, especially in the small intestine. The relation between cancer and mesenteric panniculitis is unclear. In some studies, mesenteric pannicullitis precedes cancer diagnosis; on the other hand, some studies suggest no correlations. Immunotherapeutics have a wide range of side effects; virtually, every system and organ in the body can be affected. Herein, we presented a rare case of mesenteric panniculitis in a patient with larnyngeal cancer as a side effect of nivolumab treatment. The patient was presented with nausea and vomiting and diagnosed with intravenous contrast-enhanced computed tomography and fully recovered with corticosteroid treatment. The case report highlights the importance of noticing rarely seen side effects of immunotherapy which can be treated easily with immunosuppressive agents.