Cisplatin-based chemotherapy for pulmonary metastasized germ cell tumors of the testis--be aware of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy is regarded as standard of care for patients with advanced germ cell tumors. In patients with lung metastases and a high tumor load, an association between induction chemotherapy and the development of a 'tumorassociated' acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been hypothesized.

CASE REPORT:

We report the clinical course of a 19-year-old patient who rapidly developed fatal ARDS during the first cycle of chemotherapy using the PEI regimen (cisplatin, etoposide and ifosfamide) for a metastasized (lung, liver, lymph nodes) germ cell tumor of the testis.

CONCLUSION:

Further clinical research in order to better define risk factors for developing ARDS in this patient population as well as novel strategies for the prevention and treatment of ARDS in those patients are necessary.

• Authors: Stefan Boeck, Klaus H Metzeler, Andreas Hausmann, Anja Baumann, Eike Gallmeier, Klaus G Parhofer, Hans-Joachim Stemmler
• Journal: Onkologie (Onkologie) Vol. 32 Issue 3 Pg. 125-8 (Mar 2009) ISSN: 1423-0240 [Electronic] Switzerland
• PMID: 19295253 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Chemical References

• Antineoplastic Agents
• Cisplatin

Topics

• Antineoplastic Agents (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Cisplatin (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Giant Cell Tumors (complications, drug therapy, secondary)
• Humans
• Lung Neoplasms (complications, secondary)
• Male
• Respiratory Distress Syndrome (chemically induced, prevention & control)
• Testicular Neoplasms (complications, drug therapy, secondary)
• Treatment Outcome
• Young Adult