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[Pulmonary toxicity caused by nitrofurantoin]
G Lenci1, J Müller-Quernheim, J Lorenz
1Abteilung für Pneumologie, Klinikum der Johannes Gutenberg Universität, Mainz.
Pneumologie (Stuttgart, Germany)
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Nitrofurantoin can cause acute and chronic lung damage. This study details three cases, confirming alveolitis in all patients through lung biopsy and lavage, highlighting pulmonary nitrofurantoin reactions.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Nitrofurantoin is a widely prescribed antibiotic for urinary tract infections.
- Pulmonary damage, both acute and chronic, has been anecdotally linked to nitrofurantoin use since its introduction.
- This report focuses on detailed case studies to further elucidate these adverse pulmonary reactions.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with suspected nitrofurantoin-induced pulmonary issues.
- Diagnostic procedures included bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial lung biopsy.
- Radiological and CT imaging were utilized to assess lung involvement.
Findings:
- All three patients exhibited alveolitis, indicating inflammation of the lung's air sacs.
- The severity and activity of alveolitis varied among the cases.
- Specific radiological and CT scan findings associated with the pulmonary damage were documented.
Implications:
- These findings underscore the potential for serious pulmonary toxicity from nitrofurantoin.
- Early recognition and diagnosis of pulmonary nitrofurantoin reactions are crucial.
- Further research may be warranted to understand the mechanisms and risk factors for these reactions.