Pulmonary toxicity of antineoplastic drugs
G. Batist and J. L. Andrews Jr
Pulmonary toxicity caused by antineoplastic drugs is becoming a more
frequently recognized entity, and the number of drugs known or suspected of
causing this disease is steadily increasing. In general, the initial
clinical appearance includes both constitutional signs of malaise and
fever, as well as pulmonary complaints. Some clinical signs may suggest a
particular drug as the cause. The pathological condition also is generally
nonspecific, but some clues may be present histologically that help define
the causal agent. This is a review of the antineoplastic drugs that are
associated with pulmonary toxicity. Clinical, laboratory, and pathological
data are presented as useful information for practicing physicians.
Although therapeutic maneuvers are limited, these are discussed with regard
to each drug.
