Pirfenidone; can it be a new horizon for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis in mustard gas-intoxicated patients?

Sulfur mustard is an alkylating substance still regarded as a threat in chemical warfare and terrorism. Lung parenchymal damage occurs in the most severe inhalational exposures. It accompanies an increased risk of respiratory tract carcinomas and chronic respiratory sequelae including chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial lung disease, emphysema, and bronchiolitis obliterans. Pirfenidone is an antifibrotic with anti-inflammatory and anti hydroxyl radical activities which stabilizes pulmonary function in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients. It can be suggested in chronically exposed soldiers or workers with signs and symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis to improve their quality of life and even prognosis.