Osimertinib-induced radiation recall pneumonitis

Abstract

Radiation recall pneumonitis (RRP) is a type of radiation induced lung injury that develops in a previously irradiated lung field and is triggered by administration of chemotherapeutic or immunomodulating agents. To our knowledge there is only one report of Osimertinib induced RRP. The predominant symptoms include dyspnea and cough which usually resolve after stopping the inciting agent and with glucocorticoids. We describe a 52-year-old lady with lung cancer who developed Osimertinib induced RRP. She had significant dyspnoea and cough despite stopping Osimertinib and treatment with corticosteroids. She was referred to specialist palliative care team for alleviation of symptoms. Her symptoms responded well with non-pharmacological measures and pharmacological agents including opioids and mirtazapine. This is the first report on the effect of supportive care interventions on symptom relief in Osimertinib induced RRP.

Keywords: Clinical decisions; Drug administration; Lung; Respiratory conditions; Supportive care.