A case of rifampicin-induced interstitial pneumonitis.
- Author:
Jeong Ihm JEONG
1
;
Bock Hyun JUNG
;
Mi Hye KIM
;
Yong Jin PARK
;
Tae Yun HEA
;
Dae Sik RHUI
;
Gil Hyun KANG
Author Information
1. Department of Internal Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Gangneung Asan Hospital, Gangneung, Korea. jbh@gnah.co.kr
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Drug-induced pneumonitis;
Rifampicin;
Tuberculosis
- MeSH:
Biopsy;
Dyspnea;
Female;
Glass;
Humans;
Lung;
Lung Diseases, Interstitial;
Middle Aged;
Pneumonia;
Recurrence;
Rifampin;
Thorax;
Tuberculoma;
Tuberculosis;
Tuberculosis, Pulmonary
- From:Korean Journal of Medicine
2008;75(5):592-596
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Rifampicin is a powerful agent for the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. However, it may induce several adverse effects, including rare cases of lung toxicity. Here, we report a case of rifampicin-induced interstitial pneumonitis. A 57-year-old woman diagnosed with cerebellar tuberculoma developed progressive dyspnea after the 5th day of anti-tuberculosis medication. Chest X-ray revealed newly developed ground glass opacities on both lower lung fields. Drug-induced pneumonitis was suspected and all anti-tuberculosis medications were halted. Transbronchial lung biopsy was consistent with desquamative interstitial pneumonitis. After clinical improvement, a rechallenge test with each anti-tuberculosis medication was attempted. No primary anti-tuberculosis drug except rifampicin triggered recurrence of symptoms, supporting a diagnosis of rifampicin-induced interstitial pneumonitis. Clinicians should be aware of this rare, but serious, side effect of rifampicin treatment.
