Pneumonitis
Pneumonitis is a general term that refers to inflammation of lung tissue. Pneumonia, which is caused by infection, is the most commonly-known form of pneumonitis. Many other factors can cause pneumonitis, including inhaling food particles and exposure to pet dander (1). Pneumonitis is also a fairly common side effect of
radiation therapy, occurring in 5 to 15% of patients who receive thoracic
radiation (radiation
treatment of the chest area) (2).
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When radiation is directed at the tumor to stop it from growing and dividing, normal cells inevitably are harmed as well. The sensitive tissues in the lungs may have an inflammatory response from the radiation. This condition is known radiation pneumonitis (3).
Symptoms of radiation pneumonitis may include shortness of breath during physical activity, persistent cough, and fever, though individuals with the condition will not necessary feel ill or even manifest any of these symptoms. The condition is diagnosed via chest x-rays, and possibly CT scans.
If radiation pneumonitis persists, it can lead to scarring of the lungs, a condition known as radiation fibrosis. Radiation fibrosis typically occurs a year after the completion of radiation treatments, and is usually not reversible (3). Radiation pneumonitis is treated with anti-inflammatory medication, often in the form of cortisone drugs, such as prednisone (2, 3).