CMV Pneumonitis following Bendamustine containing Chemotherapy

Sumeet Vimal Kishor Singhania1, Pujan Parikh2, Sandeep Goyle3

  • 1Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine.

Insights

Bendamustine use in lymphoma patients may increase Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation risk. This case highlights CMV pneumonitis presenting as fever, emphasizing the need for vigilance in patients on bendamustine.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Bendamustine is increasingly utilized for indolent lymphoma treatment.
  • Emerging data suggests a potential link between bendamustine and adverse events, including Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation.

Observation:

  • A case of CMV pneumonitis is presented in a lymphoma patient undergoing bendamustine therapy.
  • The patient initially presented with unexplained pyrexia.

Findings:

  • The CMV pneumonitis responded effectively to intravenous Ganciclovir treatment.
  • This case underscores the possibility of CMV reactivation in patients receiving bendamustine.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for CMV reactivation in lymphoma patients on bendamustine presenting with pyrexia or respiratory symptoms.
  • Early recognition and treatment with antiviral agents like Ganciclovir are crucial for favorable outcomes.

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