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Real members of MyLungCancerTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyLungCancerTeam Member asked a question 💭
istanbul

My dad's blood reports still show infection after getting treated for early pneumonia two weeks ago and they will start antibiotics via a serum and take the liquid out of the lung. Is this common during the treatment?

October 16, 2025
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MyLungCancerTeam

Yes, this is quite common during lung cancer treatment. Between 50-70% of people with lung cancer develop pneumonia. This happens because chemotherapy can weaken the immune system by lowering white blood cell counts (particularly neutrophils), making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

During chemotherapy, your Show Full Answer

Yes, this is quite common during lung cancer treatment. Between 50-70% of people with lung cancer develop pneumonia. This happens because chemotherapy can weaken the immune system by lowering white blood cell counts (particularly neutrophils), making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

During chemotherapy, your healthcare team may need to adjust treatment plans to help manage the pneumonia effectively. This could mean temporarily pausing some cancer treatments while focusing on clearing the infection. The ongoing infection showing in blood work and fluid in the lungs requires careful monitoring. Your father's doctors are taking appropriate steps by:
• Administering antibiotics through IV (serum)
• Removing excess fluid from the lungs
• Monitoring blood work to track infection levels

Early detection and aggressive treatment of pneumonia is essential for people with lung cancer. Make sure to keep the healthcare team informed of any new or worsening symptoms your father experiences.

October 16, 2025
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Yes, it is common to have complications when getting treatment. I hope your father is doing well. I know it's been stressful. Your father's cancer treatment team has his best interest in mind.

October 21, 2025
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

It is common to have infections during chemo, and important to be treated
fast. Hospitalization may be needed. Your oncologist should be tracking
infection risk closely.

Mickeyfin

October 16, 2025

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