Respiratorische Insuffizienz und pulmonale Fibrose als Spätfolge einer Chemotherapie - induziert durch Sauerstoffexposition

Antineoplastic therapy-induced pulmonary toxicity

Pulmonary complications of antineoplastic therapy are common and are an important cause of respiratory morbidity. The pulmonary toxicity should be taken into account in every patient with respiratory problems who is or has been treated with antineoplastic agents. The diagnosis of drug-induced pulmonary toxicity is complex and should be based on the medical history, clinical, radiological and pathological findings. None of them are specific but they can guide the diagnostic process. The treatment of pulmonary abnormalities caused by chemotherapy is mostly supportive and based on cessation of the causative agent. However, the therapeutic options in oncology setting are usually limited thus the decision about changing the treatment should be taken with caution.

Was muss ich praktisch bei der Umsetzung einer Chemotherapie beachten?

The patient stands at the center of a chemotherapy. The aim of the curative or palliative treatment is not only the death of the tumor cells, but also the maintenance or improvement of the patient's physical condition, especially the improvement of quality of life. Before starting the therapy, it is necessary to determine, for example, the patient's general condition and motivation, and to carry out a consultation. Examinations, for example, blood tests, audiograms, renal function and lung function should also be made. Thus, the patient's tolerance for even the most onerous chemotherapy can be investigated and patients can be individually prepared for the treatment.