Lapatinib Ditosylate and Pulmonary toxicity

The use of certain EGFR inhibitors has been associated with pulmonary toxicity. Serious cases of interstitial lung disease (ILD), including fatal cases and interstitial pneumonitis or pulmonary fibrosis have been reported. Caution is recommended when using these agents in patients with a history of interstitial pneumonitis or pulmonary fibrosis or those patients presenting with acute onset of new or progressive unexplained pulmonary symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and fever pending diagnostic evaluation. If ILD is confirmed, permanently discontinue these agents and institute appropriate measures.

Pulmonary toxicity, sometimes fatal has been reported with agents that block HER2 activity. Pulmonary toxicity includes dyspnea, interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary infiltrates, pleural effusions, non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema, pulmonary insufficiency and hypoxia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and pulmonary fibrosis. Patients with symptomatic intrinsic lung disease or with extensive tumor involvement of the lungs, resulting in dyspnea at rest may be at increased risk of pulmonary toxicity and appear to have more severe toxicity. Patients should be monitored for pulmonary symptoms. Permanently discontinue treatment with these agents in patients diagnosed with interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis and institute appropriate care.