Pneumonitis is somewhat similar to pneumonia. It means an inflammation of the lung. Pneumonitis can be caused by viruses and bacteria, as well as allergy, disease, irritation by inhaled substances, and radiation. Pneumonitis can be seen in patients with mesothelioma after chemotherapy, when patients’ immunity is lowered, or after radiation treatment for pleural mesothelioma. When pneumonitis worsens, and there is more inflammation and fluid in the lungs (called consolidation and exudation), it may be called pneumonia.
Dr. Kaplan
