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Updated: May 30, 2026
10:44
Chemical Inactivation of the E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Cereblon by Pomalidomide-based Homo-PROTACs
Published on: May 15, 2019
Acute lung toxicity related to pomalidomide
Holly L Geyer1, Robert W Viggiano2, Martha Q Lacy3
1Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ.
Chest
|August 5, 2011
Summary
Pomalidomide, an immunomodulatory drug, can cause acute pulmonary toxicity in multiple myeloma patients. Symptoms include dyspnea and fever, improving with treatment cessation and corticosteroids.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pomalidomide is an immunomodulatory derivative (IMiD) used in multiple myeloma treatment.
- Understanding its adverse effects is crucial for patient safety.
Observation:
- Two patients on pomalidomide developed dyspnea, fever, hypoxia, and lung opacities.
- Infectious workups were negative; symptoms improved upon medication cessation and/or corticosteroid use.
Findings:
- Recurrence of pulmonary symptoms occurred upon rechallenge with lower-dose pomalidomide.
- Clinical presentation and response to treatment strongly suggest acute pulmonary toxicity secondary to pomalidomide.
Implications:
- Pulmonary toxicity is a potential adverse effect of pomalidomide therapy.
- Physicians should be aware of this presentation for early diagnosis and management.
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