[Modern tumor therapy and its pulmonary side effects].

Abstract

Radiation therapy and more recently, drug-based molecular therapy in particular, are a central component of modern oncology. Both forms of therapy are suitable for effectively treating tumors with comparatively low systemic side effects. Nevertheless, even these treatment approaches have side effects, which are triggered by the toxicity of the radiation and by the immunomodulatory effects of the administered drugs. The pneumotoxic potential of these forms of therapy is reflected in the development of interstitial pneumonitis, which can transition into fibrotic changes in the lung structure. The clinical diagnosis of the disease is made more difficult as the symptoms are nonspecific. Computed tomography (CT) is an excellent means of diagnosing the corresponding consolidations and to monitor them over time. Therefore, in the interdisciplinary context the radiologist plays a central role in the diagnostics of this disease.