Radiation-induced pneumonitis: literature review and clinical case
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32932/gecp.2022.09.028Keywords:
Radiation-induced pneumonitis, radiotherapy, radiation fibrosisAbstract
Introduction and Objectives: Most cancer patients need radiotherapy treatments. In chest irradiation, a possible serious complication is Radiation-Induced lung Injury, an entity that encompasses radiation-induced pneumonitis and radiation fibrosis. Radiation-induced pneumonitis occurs in 5-20% of patients and may be asymptomatic or symptomatic, which can affect the quality of life of patients.Materials and Methods: Literature review and brief clinical case description.
Clinical Case: A 35-year-old woman with a history of asthma who underwent tumorectomy for breast carcinoma, followed by external radiotherapy, hormone therapy and chemical castration. Following a persistent and aggravated respiratory condition, a diagnosis of radiation pneumonitis was established, documented by imaging exams and with histological confirmation. The subsequent initiation of corticoid therapy resulted in a frank clinical improvement of the patient with resolution of the condition.
Conclusion: Radiation-induced pneumonitis is a non-negligible adverse effect of chest irradiation and has a multi-factorial origin. Several risk factors have been associated with this entity, both related to the treatment itself and related to patient characteristics. The institution of targeted therapy as early as possible allows for a possible resolution of the condition.
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