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Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition
Published on: March 3, 2023
Methotrexate-associated pneumonitis: usefulness of lung ultrasound
José S Cortés1, Javier Correa1, Wilder Carvajal1
1Universidad Nacional de Colombia.
Introduction:
Methotrexate-associated pneumonitis (MTX-Pneu) is a rare, idiosyncratic hypersensitivity reaction that can occur in patients receiving methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis. Although uncommon, MTX-Pneu may present acutely and requires prompt recognition.
Case Report:
A 75-year-old woman with late-onset, seropositive rheumatoid arthritis started treatment with methotrexate and prednisolone. Two weeks later, she developed fever, cough, and dyspnea. Lung ultrasound and chest computed tomography revealed bilateral pulmonary involvement. Methotrexate was discontinued and the corticosteroid dose was increased. One month later, clinical symptoms and imaging findings had fully resolved, confirming MTX-Pneu.
Conclusion:
Methotrexate-associated pneumonitis is an idiosyncratic hypersensitivity reaction with a low incidence and is independent of the development of rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease. Early discontinuation of methotrexate and corticosteroid therapy are key to management, and prognosis is generally favorable. This case highlights the potential role of lung ultrasound as a rapid bedside tool for detection and monitoring of MTX-Pneu.
Insights
Methotrexate-associated pneumonitis (MTX-Pneu) is a rare hypersensitivity reaction. Prompt recognition and treatment with methotrexate discontinuation and corticosteroids lead to favorable outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
Background:
- Methotrexate-associated pneumonitis (MTX-Pneu) is an uncommon, idiosyncratic hypersensitivity reaction.
- It can occur in patients treated with methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis and may present acutely.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of MTX-Pneu in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis.
- To highlight the diagnostic and monitoring utility of lung ultrasound.
Main Methods:
- A 75-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis developed acute respiratory symptoms after starting methotrexate.
- Diagnostic workup included lung ultrasound and chest CT.
- Treatment involved methotrexate discontinuation and increased corticosteroid dosage.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with fever, cough, and dyspnea, with bilateral pulmonary involvement on imaging.
- Following treatment, clinical symptoms and imaging findings fully resolved.
- Lung ultrasound and CT confirmed MTX-Pneu.
Conclusions:
- MTX-Pneu is an idiosyncratic reaction, distinct from rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease.
- Early methotrexate withdrawal and corticosteroid therapy are crucial for favorable prognosis.
- Lung ultrasound may serve as a rapid bedside tool for MTX-Pneu detection and monitoring.
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