Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome

Radiation fibrosis syndrome is a human illness. It occurs as a result of cell death, and can be caused by radiotherapy. It is characterized by the accumulation of fibrin in irradiated tissues.

Symptoms

Serious cases manifest with the following symptoms:

• Dyspnea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Dry cough
• Pain in the muscles and joints
• Digital clubbing

Diagnosis

For the diagnosis, the following tests can be performed.

• Hematic biometry
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or tomography
• Pulmonary function tests
• Biopsy

Treatment

Pulmonary fibrosis is not currently curable; but some steps can be taken to minimize its effects, such as changing the treatment regimen. Other measures that should be taken into account are quitting smoking (if applicable), oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, vaccination against influenza and pneumococcus to prevent lung infections, or in extreme cases, a lung transplant. Under certain circumstances, antifibrotic agents such as pirfenidone or nintedanib can be used.