Lung cancer in patients with fibrosing interstitial lung diseases: an overview of current knowledge and challenges

Patients with progressive fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (fILD) have increased morbidity and mortality. Lung fibrosis can be associated with lung cancer. The pathogenesis of both diseases shows similarities, although not all mechanisms are understood. The combination of the diseases is challenging, due to the amplified risk of mortality, and also because lung cancer treatment carries additional risks in patients with underlying lung fibrosis. Acute exacerbations in fILD patients are linked to increased mortality, and the risk of acute exacerbations is increased after lung cancer treatment with surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Careful selection of treatment modalities is crucial to improve survival while maintaining acceptable quality of life in patients with combined lung cancer and fILD. This overview of epidemiology, pathogenesis, treatment and a possible role for antifibrotic drugs in patients with lung cancer and fILD is the summary of a session presented during the virtual European Respiratory Society Congress in 2021. The review summarises current knowledge and identifies areas of uncertainty. Most current data relate to patients with combined idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. There is a pressing need for additional prospective studies, required for the formulation of a consensus statement or guideline on the optimal care of patients with lung cancer and fILD.