Mit-O-My I Can't Breath! Mitomycin C-Induced Pneumonitis Leading to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, a Rare Case.

Abstract

Mitomycin C (MMC) pneumonitis leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a rare and life-threatening adverse reaction to MMC. Diagnosing MMC pneumonitis can be challenging as more frequent etiologies such as bacterial infections are often targeted first due to patients being immunocompromised from chemotherapy. We report a case of a middle-aged male who was administered MMC without concomitant vinca alkaloid, who developed ARDS secondary to MMC pneumonitis requiring intubation and intensive care. The patient recovered with steroid treatment after being on antibiotics for many days, and no infectious etiology was ever identified. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing MMC as a potential cause for pneumonitis which can lead to ARDS and death.