The University of Toledo Translation Journal of Medical Sciences 
Pulmonology Abstract, Department of Medicine Research Symposium UTJMS 2023 May 5; 11(1):e1-e1 

Pembrolizumab-induced Pneumonitis 
Joshua Busken1*, Gavin Kelly1, Ragheb Assaly, MD1 

1Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, The 
University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614 

*Corresponding author: Joshua.busken@rockets.utoledo.edu

Published: 05 May 2023 

Introduction: Pembrolizumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting the anti-programmed death protein 1, 
which is present on the surface of T and B cells.  Here we present a case of a 47-year-old female with 
diagnosed with triple negative left sided invasive ductal carcinoma stage IIIC treated with several round 
of chemotherapy which included Pembrolizumab.  The patient subsequently developed worsening 
respiratory functions requiring oxygen and eventually lead to intubation with ICU admission.  After 
extensive workup the patient was diagnosed with Pembrolizumab-induced pneumonitis.   

Methods: EMR records were gathered from hospital visits. Patient was physically seen throughout her 
hospital course. Images were gathered with patient consent from EMR.   

Results: Following intubation the patient was transferred to a university-based hospital where she was 
treated with 500mg of prednisone for three days as well as ventilator support. Gradual improvement led 
to extubation with continued improvement in oxygen requirement.   

Conclusion: Pembrolizumab induced pneumonitis is a rare but life-threatening complication. 

https://dx.doi.org/10.46570/utjms.vol11-2023-774 

https://dx.doi.org/10.46570/utjms.vol11-2023-774
mailto:Joshua.busken@rockets.utoledo.edu