Introduction to Iatrogenic Conditions

Abstract

Post-therapy imaging interpretation can be challenging. In most practices, the main thoracic interventions include drug therapy, surgery and radiation therapy. In certain practices, especially in the absence of stereotactic radiation, radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation have gained a foothold. Post -therapeutic changes in the lung may be divided into two main categories: local and diffuse. Local changes are usually seen with radiation and percutaneous therapies. Diffuse changes mainly include organizing pneumonia and alveolar damage. The latter may be seen after both medical and surgical intervention. Two key questions must be answered when dealing with the treated patient: what was the prior therapy and when was the treatment. Both questions will help determine the significance of the imaging findings.