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Dupilumab for bullous pemphigoid related to immune checkpoint inhibitors: a retrospective case series

I. Nykaza, A. Moy, S. Dusza, A. Moskowitz, G. Iyer, A. Iqbal, Robert J. Motzer, D. Ilson et al.

The Oncologist, 2025

17 participants · 17 citations

Abstract

Abstract Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy but are associated with treatment-limiting immune-related cutaneous adverse events (irCAEs). Immune checkpoint inhibitor-related bullous pemphigoid (irBP), a severe, blistering irCAE occurs in 0.3%–1.5% of patients receiving ICI therapy. While systemic steroids can be effective, they are associated with significant toxicity and may mitigate immunotherapy antitumor efficacy. Consequently, steroid-sparing therapies are needed. Dupilumab, an IL-4 and IL-13 receptor antagonist, has demonstrated efficacy in non-ICI-related BP and appears promising for managing irBP. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of patients treated with dupilumab for irBP from April 2020 to April 2024. Clinical data, outcomes, and adverse events were assessed. Inhibitor-related bullous pemphigoid response was categorized as complete response (CR), partial response (PR), or no response (NR). Results In all, 17 patients (59% male, 82% non-Hispanic White; mean age 72.7 years) developed irBP while receiving PD-1/PDL-1 inhibitors. Sixteen patients (94%) received dupilumab for active irBP and one (6%) for prevention of recurrence. Dupilumab achieved CR of irBP for 12 patients (75%) and PR for 2 (12%) patients with active irBP. Ten (62%) achieved CR with dupilumab systemic monotherapy. Median time to first response was 19.5 days (range = 3–50). Most patients with CR (58%) failed prior oral corticosteroid therapy. The…

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