Pulmonary toxicities of biologics: a review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pulmonology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cancer treatment is rapidly evolving with the introduction of novel biologic drugs.
• Biologic therapies, while effective, can be associated with rare but severe adverse events.
• Pulmonary toxicities, particularly interstitial lung disease, represent a significant concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pulmonary toxicities associated with specific biologic cancer drugs.
• To provide an overview of the mechanism of action and indications for these agents.
• To summarize the incidence, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of drug-induced lung injury.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pulmonary toxicities linked to rituximab, cetuximab, bevacizumab, alemtuzumab, and trastuzumab.
• Compilation of data on drug mechanisms, indications, and reported adverse pulmonary events.
• Synthesis of global case reports and studies detailing clinical manifestations and management strategies.

Main Results:

• Identified rituximab, cetuximab, bevacizumab, alemtuzumab, and trastuzumab as agents linked to pulmonary toxicity.
• Documented interstitial lung disease as a primary manifestation of these toxicities.
• Summarized variability in incidence, clinical course, and treatment responses across diverse patient populations.

Conclusions:

• Pulmonary toxicity is a rare but serious complication of these widely used cancer biologics.
• Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Further research is warranted to better understand and mitigate these adverse events.