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Clopidogrel-Induced Interstitial Lung Disease: A Case Report

Jin An1, Seung Hwan Lee2, Boksoon Chang1

  • 1Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management
|July 21, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Clopidogrel, a common antiplatelet medication, can rarely cause interstitial lung disease. Prompt withdrawal of clopidogrel and steroid treatment led to patient recovery, highlighting the importance of recognizing this adverse effect.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pulmonology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel is crucial for preventing recurrent ischemic events in patients with intracranial arterial stenosis.
  • Clopidogrel, while effective, carries a risk of adverse effects, primarily hemorrhagic complications.
  • Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a recognized, albeit rare, potential adverse reaction to clopidogrel.

Observation:

  • A 79-year-old female patient on dual antiplatelet therapy presented with acute dyspnea.
  • Chest CT revealed bilateral peribronchial ground-glass opacity and reticulation, with negative infectious workup.
  • Symptoms improved significantly after clopidogrel withdrawal and initiation of steroid therapy.

Findings:

  • The patient's presentation and subsequent recovery strongly suggest clopidogrel-induced interstitial lung disease.
  • This case highlights a rare but serious pulmonary complication associated with clopidogrel use.
  • Early recognition and management, including drug discontinuation and corticosteroid administration, are key to favorable outcomes.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider clopidogrel-induced ILD in patients presenting with unexplained pulmonary symptoms while on this medication.
  • Awareness of this rare adverse effect is critical for timely diagnosis and appropriate patient management.
  • This case underscores the need for vigilant monitoring of potential drug-induced lung injuries in clinical practice.

Keywords:
cerebral infarctionclopidogreldrug-induced lung diseaseinterstitial lung disease

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