Integrative physiological study of radiation-induced lung injury: effects on cardiac function and kidney integrity

Radiotherapy is used to treat chest tumors, but may induce radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) in some patients. In the current RILI model, significant changes were observed in both irradiated and nonirradiated lungs. Increased right ventricle afterload and kidney morphological alterations were detected, suggesting vascular congestion. This study highlights the well-known impact of RILI on lungs but also emphasizes the often-overlooked effects on heart and kidneys in clinical practice.