Cytomegalovirus pneumonia in a patient with breast cancer on chemotherapy: case report and review of the literature

Ann Oncol. 1999 Apr;10(4):461-5. doi: 10.1023/a:1008360927507.

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonia in the setting of non-transplantation patients is a rarity. We present a case of CMV pneumonitis in a woman with stage IV breast cancer, with brain metastases, receiving both chemotherapy and systemic corticosteroids. A review of the literature reveals this as a unique case. Potential viral etiologies should therefore be considered in cancer patients with pneumonia receiving non-transplantation chemotherapy-regimens, particularly if steroids are a component of their therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Brain Neoplasms / secondary
  • Brain Neoplasms / therapy
  • Breast Neoplasms / complications*
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / complications
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / secondary
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / therapy
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / diagnosis
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / drug therapy
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / etiology*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Ganciclovir / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pneumonia, Viral / diagnosis
  • Pneumonia, Viral / drug therapy
  • Pneumonia, Viral / etiology*
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Ganciclovir