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Reversible dilated cardiomyopathy associated with amphotericin B therapy
J R Soares1, M C P Nunes, A F Leite
1Hospital das Clinicas of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics
|December 10, 2014
Summary
Amphotericin B can cause reversible dilated cardiomyopathy, a rare side effect. This case highlights potential cardiotoxicity in patients without predisposing factors, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Amphotericin B (AmB) is a critical antifungal and antileishmanial agent.
- Its clinical utility is often limited by significant adverse effects.
- Reversible dilated cardiomyopathy is a rare but documented complication of AmB therapy.
Observation:
- A case of acute dilated cardiomyopathy developed in a previously healthy 45-year-old man during AmB treatment for visceral leishmaniasis.
- The patient had no predisposing factors for heart failure, differentiating this case from previous reports.
- Cardiac function normalized post-treatment, consistent with reversible cardiotoxicity.
Findings:
- This report presents the first instance of AmB-induced dilated cardiomyopathy in a patient lacking known cardiac risk factors.
- The findings suggest AmB may possess direct cardiotoxic potential.
- The cardiotoxicity appears to be reversible upon discontinuation of the drug.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider AmB-induced cardiotoxicity in patients presenting with unexplained heart failure, even without risk factors.
- Further research is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of AmB-induced cardiotoxicity.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant cardiac monitoring during AmB therapy.
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