Azacitidine-Induced Pneumonitis in a Patient With Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Hyperleukocytosis

Abstract

Chemotherapy-related toxicity is a complex aspect of oncologic care. Pulmonary toxicity, in particular, poses a significant challenge, as it can have diverse presentations and can closely mimic other common complications of cancer treatment, such as infections. Azacitidine is an agent widely employed in high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia. We present a case of azacitidine-induced pneumonitis, a rare adverse effect, in a 70-year-old patient with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and hyperleukocytosis. After discontinuation of the drug and introduction of steroids, the patient had complete resolution of symptoms, highlighting the importance of identifying and addressing chemotherapy-induced pneumonitis.

Azacitidine induced lung injury: report and contemporary discussion on diagnosis and management

“…In general, medications cause adverse effects in 0.07% of admitted patients and can be fatal in 0.003% (36). One way to assess the correlation between medications and toxicities is using the Naranjo scale, one of the most used tools to detect medications' toxicities (10).…”