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Large pericardial effusion induced by minoxidil.
Mehmet Çilingiroğlu1, Nuri Akkuş, Salil Sethi
1University of Pittsburgh Heart and Vascular Institute, Pittsburgh, USA. mcilingiroglu@yahoo.com
Summary
Minoxidil can cause pericardial effusion (PE) and pulmonary hypertension, potentially leading to cardiac tamponade. Discontinuing minoxidil led to spontaneous resolution of PE in a patient with these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Minoxidil is a medication used for blood pressure control.
- Pericardial effusion (PE) and pulmonary hypertension are known potential side effects of minoxidil.
- Pulmonary hypertension can influence cardiac tamponade physiology.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old male presented with dyspnea, tachycardia, and tachypnea.
- Echocardiogram revealed large pericardial effusion (PE) and significant pulmonary hypertension.
- The patient was recently started on minoxidil for hypertension.
Findings:
- The patient's condition was managed conservatively after right heart catheterization, which mitigated the risk of cardiac tamponade.
- Discontinuation of minoxidil resulted in the spontaneous resolution of the pericardial effusion.
- This case highlights the association between minoxidil, PE, and pulmonary hypertension.
Implications:
- Physicians should consider minoxidil as a potential cause of pericardial effusion and pulmonary hypertension.
- Monitoring for these adverse effects is crucial in patients treated with minoxidil.
- Conservative management and drug discontinuation may be effective in resolving minoxidil-induced PE.
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