Docetaxel-Induced Pneumonitis in a Patient With Metastatic Lung Adenocarcinoma

Docetaxel is a taxane anti-neoplastic agent commonly used in the treatment of solid-organ tumours. Here, we describe a case of a patient with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma who had disease progression following initial treatment with a combination of pembrolizumab, pemetrexed and carboplatin. She received three cycles of docetaxel and had a favourable oncological response but was admitted for breathlessness following the third cycle. A repeat computed tomography scan of the thorax showed predominantly right-sided ground-glass opacities and consolidation. The patient underwent high-risk bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage. Once infection was confidently ruled out, she was started on high-dose steroid therapy and responded to treatment.