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World J Radiol. Sep 28, 2014; 6(9): 708-715
Published online Sep 28, 2014. doi: 10.4329/wjr.v6.i9.708
Published online Sep 28, 2014. doi: 10.4329/wjr.v6.i9.708
Radiation pneumonitis after stereotactic radiation therapy for lung cancer
Hideomi Yamashita, Wataru Takahashi, Akihiro Haga, Keiichi Nakagawa, Department of Radiology, University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
Author contributions: Yamashita H designed the study and performed the majority of work, including literature review and writing the first draft of the manuscript; Takahashi W, Haga A and Nakagawa K provided advice regarding important intellectual content of the topical discussion.
Correspondence to: Hideomi Yamashita, MD, PhD, Department of Radiology, University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan. yamachan07291973@yahoo.co.jp
Telephone: +81-3-58008667 Fax: +81-3-58008935
Received: December 7, 2013
Revised: July 1, 2014
Accepted: July 15, 2014
Published online: September 28, 2014
Revised: July 1, 2014
Accepted: July 15, 2014
Published online: September 28, 2014
Core Tip
Core tip: Radiation pneumonitis (RP) is one of the most common toxicities after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Although most RP is Grade 1 or 2 and either asymptomatic or manageable, a few cases are severe and there is a risk for mortality. A dose-effect relationship has been demonstrated that can be used for treatment planning. Other prognostic indicators of severe radiation pneumonitis after SBRT are an interstitial pneumonitis shadow on computed tomography scan and high levels of serum Krebs von den Lungen-6 and surfactant protein D before treatment.