Carbimazole induced pleural effusion: a case report.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pulmonology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Thyrotoxicosis is a common endocrine disorder requiring antithyroid medication.
• Carbimazole is a widely used antithyroid drug for managing hyperthyroidism.
• Pleural effusion is a recognized, albeit uncommon, adverse effect of certain medications.

Observation:

• An elderly woman on carbimazole for thyrotoxicosis developed recurrent unilateral exudative pleural effusion.
• Extensive investigations failed to identify an alternative cause for the pleural effusion.
• The patient experienced recurrent hospital admissions for symptom management and effusion drainage.

Findings:

• A diagnosis of drug-induced exudative pleural effusion secondary to carbimazole was established.
• Discontinuation of carbimazole resulted in complete resolution of the pleural effusion.
• No recurrence of pleural effusion was observed after stopping carbimazole.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider carbimazole-induced pleural effusion in patients with thyrotoxicosis presenting with unexplained pleural effusion.
• Discontinuation of carbimazole and consideration of alternative treatments are recommended if this complication is suspected.
• This case highlights the importance of recognizing rare drug-induced adverse events in clinical practice.