Abstract
INTRODUCTION: This paper presents a case of a Chinese patient with advanced colon cancer who developed drug-induced interstitial lung disease while undergoing treatment with cetuximab combined with XELOX. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 75-year-old man with a history of colon cancer, had metastases in the liver, peritoneum, and lungs, which were initially treated with XELOX and cetuximab (0.4 g) in 2019. However, the lung metastases progressed, and the cetuximab dosage was adjusted to 0.9 g and then readjusted to 0.4 g. DIAGNOSIS: In January 2021, computed tomography revealed developed interstitial lung disease, leading to the discontinuation of chemotherapy and cetuximab. INTERVENTIONS: Receiving methylprednisolone pulse therapy. OUTCOMES: The patient experienced respiratory failure and passed away. The Naranjo Algorithm Assessment score indicated a probable relationship between cetuximab and the adverse event. CONCLUSION: This case highlights the need for regular pulmonary imaging examinations during cetuximab therapy, as drug-induced interstitial lung disease may be associated with the dose and duration of treatment.