Management of Chemo / Immunotherapy Related Lung Toxicity
Certain chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy drugs used in cancer treatment can sometimes cause lung toxicity, leading to inflammation or damage in the lung tissues. This condition can present as cough, breathlessness, chest pain, or abnormal scans, and may resemble infections or worsening of existing lung disease.
How is Lung Toxicity Managed?
Managing lung toxicity involves early recognition, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment to prevent long-term damage:
Identification & Diagnosis- Monitoring for respiratory symptoms in patients receiving cancer therapy
- High-resolution CT scans to detect lung inflammation or fibrosis
- Pulmonary function tests to assess breathing capacity
- Bronchoscopy with lavage to rule out infection or cancer progression
Treatment typically includes modifying or discontinuing the offending drug, initiating anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids, and providing supportive care such as oxygen therapy or pulmonary rehabilitation when needed. Management is tailored based on the severity of lung involvement and patient condition.
Why It’s Important
Early diagnosis and treatment can reverse damage in many cases and allow patients to continue cancer therapy safely under close monitoring. Collaborative care between oncologists and pulmonologists ensures the best outcomes for patients.