Malignancies can occur during the follow-up of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Immune checkpoint inhibitors are increasingly used in the treatment of these malignancies due to their prolonged survival effects. Nivolumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, is used in cancer treatment. It works by blocking the PD-1 (programmed death) receptor on T cells, thereby enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells. However, this enhanced immune response can also lead to immune-related adverse events, including gastrointestinal complications. Herein, we present two patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease flare on nivolumab therapy and review the literature.
Keywords: Anti PD-1, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis