Radiation Pneumonitis

Radiation pneumonitis is acute inflammatory lung reaction within the radiation field, occurring 1-6 months after thoracic radiation, presenting with dyspnea, cough, fever, and patchy consolidation conforming to radiation port. Treatment: supportive care; oxygen; systemic corticosteroids (prednisone taper) for symptomatic; treat infection; avoid further radiation to involved field; monitor for chronic radiation fibrosis; pulmonary rehab; treat comorbidities.

Common Symptoms

Dyspnea/cough/fever; within radiation port; 1-6 months post-radiation

Causes and Pathogenesis

Radiation causes alveolar endothelial/epithelial inflammation and capillary leak.

Treatment

Supportive; systemic corticosteroids for symptomatic; treat infection; monitor fibrosis

Preventive Measures

Radiation planning; dose limitation; treat comorbidities.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Pulmonology/Radiation-oncology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.