Variable radiographic and histologic presentations of amiodarone‐related interstitial lung disease and the importance of avoiding re‐exposure

Abstract

Abstract Amiodarone is a commonly used antiarrhythmic agent but exhibits potential pulmonary toxicity. In this case series, we describe the clinical, radiographic, and histologic manifestations of three patients who developed interstitial lung disease (ILD) following amiodarone treatment for variable lengths of time with different dosages. The presentations on computed tomographic images and in pulmonary pathology differed among the three patients. All three had immediate discontinuation of amiodarone and received treatment with systemic corticosteroids. One patient eventually died from ventilator‐associated pneumonia after an initial improvement. The other two patients recovered well but later experienced ILD recurrence following brief re‐exposure to amiodarone. Through this case series, we aim to demonstrate the variable features of amiodarone‐related ILD, and highlight the importance of timely amiodarone cessation and avoiding re‐exposure to prevent the progression and recurrence of ILD.

Keywords

• amiodarone
• interstitial lung diseases
• pneumonia