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Pulmonary Effects of Radiation Therapy
Abstract
The cellular effects of irradiating the lungs are related to the histologic and clinical sequelae. The occurrence and severity of damage are semiquantitatively related to the volume of lung irradiated, and the dose rate of irradiation. The clinical syndrome occurs in up to about 10% of patients and consists of an acute transient phase, radiation pneumonitis, usually occurring 6 to 12 weeks after radiation therapy. This is followed by clinical remission except in the most severe cases and gradual radiologic progression to the stage of radiation fibrosis over the next 6 to 12 months. Concommittant chemotherapy, repeat courses of radiation, and steroid withdrawal are exacerbating factors. Characteristic changes in pulmonary function and radiographic appearance are described, and management is reviewed.
Article and Author Information
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▸From the Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago Hospitals and Clinics, Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
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Grant support: grant CA 14599, Department of Health, Education and Welfare.
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▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to Nicholas J. Gross, M.D., Respiratory Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of Chicago, 950 E. 59th St., Chicago, IL 60637.
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- Received May 3, 1976.
- Accepted October 7, 1976.
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