Anti-PD-1 antibody camrelizumab plus doxorubicin showed durable response in pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma: Case report and literature review

What is known and objective Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC) is characterized by dismal prognosis and resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy. The immune checkpoint inhibitors showed promising efficacy in the treatment of PSC. Camrelizumab is a programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor; however, current evidence of its efficacy in PSC is lacking. Case summary A 47-year-old female non-smoker presented with central-type masses in the right upper and lower lobes. PSC (cT4N2M0, stage IIIB) with positive expression of programmed death ligand-1 was diagnosed. First-line camrelizumab plus doxorubicin and cisplatin was introduced, followed by camrelizumab monotherapy due to grade 4 leukopenia and thrombocytopenia during the combination therapy. The lesions indicated a partial remission which endured for more than 20 months. What is new and conclusion Camrelizumab plus doxorubicin and cisplatin regimen is a promising option for PSC patients. Further high-quality trials are warranted.