Methotrexate induced pneumonitis – A case report and review of literature

Abstract

Methotrexate (MTX) is the commonly preferred drug in the treatment of various chronic inflammatory conditions. An uncommon, life-threatening, and fatal event associated with methotrexate use is methotrexate-induced pneumonitis (M-pneu). M-pneu does not correlate with the dosage, duration, or method of administration. We present a case of M-pneu in a diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis patient after six years of initiation of MTX. Prompt recognition, withdrawal, and supportive therapy have a positive outcome. If untreated, M-pneu has a proven fatality of 17–30% in published cases.

Keywords

• idiosyncratic hypersensitivity reaction
• interstitial pneumonitis
• methotrexate-induced pneumonitis
• rheumatoid arthritis
• toxicity