A Case of Immunotherapy-Induced Balanitis

Immunotherapy is indicated in a variety of different cancers with wide-ranging adverse events. Although dermatitis can be common, serious dermatologic complications (such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome) have also been reported. In this case report we present a case of balanitis caused by pembrolizumab, briefly review the current literature on more common dermatologic immunotherapy toxicities, and discuss the more common causes and treatments of balanitis. Although drug eruptions commonly respond to discontinuation of the offending agent, here we were able to treat with topical agents, such as steroid cream and mupirocin ointment. The ability to treat the balanitis without needing to discontinue the patient's immunotherapy highlights the success in both controlling the cancer and the treatment-related toxicity.