Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Drug-Induced Senescence in Liver Cells Promotes M2 Macrophage Polarization: Implications for Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Associated Hepatotoxicity
Published on: October 17, 2025
[Imatinib-induced pulmonary toxicity]
Raúd Carrillo-Esper1, Neisser Morales-Victorino
1Unidad de Terapia Intensiva, Fundación Clínica Médica Sur, México DF, México.
Abstract:
Antineoplasic agent-induced pulmonary toxicity is an important cause of respiratory failure. These novel antineoplastic agents include imatinib mesylate, a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is encoded by the Bcr-Abl gen created by the Philadelphia chromosome abnormality in chronic myeloid leukemia. Pulmonary toxicity of imatinib is directly related to the dose used. The more severe pulmonary manifestations include pleural effusion by water retention and interstitial pneumonitis. We report the first case published in Mexico ofimatinib-induced pulmonary toxicity and its management in the intensive care unit of the Medica Sur Clinic Foundation.
Insights
Imatinib mesylate, a targeted cancer therapy, can cause lung damage like pleural effusion and interstitial pneumonitis. This report details the first documented case in Mexico and its intensive care management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antineoplastic agents can induce pulmonary toxicity, a significant cause of respiratory failure.
- Imatinib mesylate, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting Bcr-Abl, is used for chronic myeloid leukemia.
- Pulmonary toxicity is dose-dependent.
Observation:
- This report presents the first case of imatinib-induced pulmonary toxicity documented in Mexico.
- The patient experienced severe pulmonary manifestations, including pleural effusion and interstitial pneumonitis.
- Management was conducted in the intensive care unit.
Findings:
- Imatinib mesylate, a novel antineoplastic agent, can lead to significant pulmonary toxicity.
- Pleural effusion and interstitial pneumonitis are key manifestations of this toxicity.
- Dose escalation correlates with increased risk and severity of pulmonary adverse events.
Implications:
- Early recognition and management of imatinib-induced pulmonary toxicity are crucial for patient outcomes.
- This case highlights the importance of monitoring respiratory function in patients receiving imatinib.
- Further research into the mechanisms and prevention of imatinib pulmonary toxicity is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Calcium Channel Blockers
TKIs, such as imatinib (Gleevec), are particularly effective in tackling the growth and mitogenic factors that become upregulated in PAH patients. These factors contribute to the...
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Drug toxicity: Idiosyncratic Reactions
Drug Toxicity: Overview
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Pharmacogenetics of Phase II Enzymes: N-acetyltransferase, Thiopurine S-methyltransferase, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase
