Bevacizumab-associated thrombotic microangiopathy treated with eculizumab: A case series and systematic review of the literature

Background: Bevacizumab is a recombinant monoclonal antibody against the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) ligand that is used in the management of various solid malignancies. The adverse effect profiles of angiogenesis inhibitors, such as bevacizumab, have become increasingly well characterized and include renal manifestations such as hypertension, proteinuria, and thrombotic microangiopathy. Eculizumab inhibits terminal-complement activation and is used to treat atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. There has been growing usage of eculizumab to treat bevacizumab-associated thrombotic microangiopathy. Materials and methods: We performed a systematic review of the literature to identify full-text articles that describe the use of eculizumab for bevacizumab-associated thrombotic microangiopathy. Results: Our systematic review identified 522 unique articles of which 5 were included in the final review. 9 cases, including 2 new cases presented in this review, were identified in which eculizumab was used in the management of bevacizumab-associated thrombotic microangiopathy. Hematologic parameters and kidney function stabilized or improved in all cases, and the 2 patients who required renal replacement therapy were able to discontinue dialysis. Conclusion: Given the findings of this systematic review, the use of eculizumab in the treatment of bevacizumab-associated thrombotic microangiopathy warrants further study, particularly in severe cases.