Radiation pneumonitis: a complication resulting from combined radiation and chemotherapy for early breast cancer

J Surg Oncol. 1985 Oct;30(2):116-9. doi: 10.1002/jso.2930300212.

Abstract

Described is a patient with early breast carcinoma who developed clinical radiation pneumonitis during primary radiation therapy and concomitant chemotherapy that included prednisone. This syndrome developed three days following abrupt steroid withdrawal. Retrieval of steroids brought complete resolution of the clinical and radiological findings. Although this syndrome is rare, it is recommended that steroid therapy in a patient previously irradiated to the chest be avoided.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Breast Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Carcinoma / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma / radiotherapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Pneumonia / etiology*
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use
  • Radiation Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Radiation Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Prednisone