Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cat developed fatal lung scarring after high-dose chemotherapy
By Skorupski, K A et al.·Published in Veterinary and comparative oncology·2008·Department of Clinical Studies, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Pulmonary fibrosis after high cumulative dose nitrosourea chemotherapy in a cat.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A cat with small to intermediate cell lymphoma was treated with chemotherapy, initially showing poor response but later achieving long-term remission with a combination of CCNU (lomustine) and corticosteroids. Unfortunately, after receiving a high total dose of CCNU over a year, the cat experienced sudden breathing problems and sadly passed away. A necropsy revealed severe lung scarring (pulmonary fibrosis) but no signs of cancer. This case highlights a potential risk of lung damage from high doses of this chemotherapy drug in cats.
People also search for: cat breathing problems after chemotherapy · pulmonary fibrosis in cats · CCNU side effects in cats · cat lymphoma treatment outcomes
Abstract
Small to intermediate cell alimentary lymphoma was diagnosed in a cat after abdominal exploratory surgery with no prior history of pulmonary disease. Initial response to several chemotherapy regimens was poor, but a long-term remission was achieved with CCNU (lomustine) and corticosteroid therapy. After receiving a total cumulative CCNU dose of 552 mg m(-2) over 12 months, an acute episode of respiratory distress occurred and the cat died. Necropsy identified severe diffuse pulmonary fibrosis and no signs of lymphoma. This is the first report of pulmonary fibrosis following high cumulative dose nitrosourea chemotherapy in a cat.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19178671/