Enhanced efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors with OK‑432 in malignant pleural mesothelioma: A case report

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Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and highly aggressive cancer with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Although immunotherapy with ipilimumab (IPI) and nivolumab (NIVO) has the potential to improve outcomes, disease progression, including recurrent pleural effusions, often occurs during or after the initial treatment. OK‑432, an immunotherapeutic agent, is commonly used for pleurodesis to control malignant pleural effusions; however, its role in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) remains underexplored. The present report describes 2 MPM cases in which patients initially responded to IPI and NIVO, but experienced disease progression. Following intrathoracic administration of OK‑432, the patients were successfully rechallenged with ICI therapy. Both cases exhibited sustained disease control and resolution of pleural effusions. These findings suggested that OK‑432 may modulate immune responses and potentially enhance the efficacy of ICIs. Further studies are warranted to validate the synergistic potential of OK‑432 and ICIs in MPM and other thoracic malignancies.

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