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Published on: July 17, 2014
Mefloquine-induced eosinophilic pneumonia.
Stamatis Katsenos1, Kostas Psathakis, Melita I Nikolopoulou
1Department of Pneumonology, University Hospital, Ioannina, Greece. skatsenos@yahoo.gr
Pharmacotherapy
|November 29, 2007
Summary
Mefloquine, used for malaria, can rarely cause eosinophilic pneumonia. This case report highlights a potential severe adverse effect of the antimalarial drug, mefloquine.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mefloquine is a common antimalarial drug for prophylaxis and treatment.
- While generally well-tolerated, mefloquine can cause rare severe adverse effects.
- These adverse effects can impact various organ systems, including the gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal systems.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old woman presented with fever, exertional dyspnea, and pulmonary infiltrates.
- Peripheral blood eosinophilia was noted on laboratory examination.
- The patient had been taking mefloquine for malaria prophylaxis during an 8-week trip.
Findings:
- A diagnosis of eosinophilic pneumonia was established.
- The condition was attributed to mefloquine use.
- Pulmonary symptoms resolved after discontinuation of the drug.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of mefloquine-induced eosinophilic pneumonia.
- Clinicians should consider eosinophilic pneumonia in patients presenting with respiratory symptoms after mefloquine use.
- Awareness of this rare adverse effect is crucial for patient safety and effective malaria treatment.
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