AMIODARONE PULMONARY TOXICITY : A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Amiodarone is a class III antiarrhythmic agent widely used in clinical practice; however, its use may be complicated by potentially severe pulmonary toxicity. We report the case of a 66-year-old man receiving long-term amiodarone therapy for atrial fibrillation who was admitted for progressive dyspnea. Physical examination revealed diffuse bilateral crackles. Laboratory tests showed leukocytosis with elevated C-reactive protein, and arterial blood gas analysis demonstrated severe hypoxemia. Chest computed tomography revealed bilateral multifocal pulmonary consolidations associated with diffuse ground glass opacities. The lack of improvement under empirical antibiotic therapy led to suspicion of amiodarone-induced pneumonitis. Discontinuation of amiodarone combined with systemic corticosteroid therapy resulted in rapid clinical improvement and near-complete radiological resolution on follow-up imaging. Amiodarone-induced pulmonary toxicity should be considered in any patient presenting with unexplained dyspnea while receiving this medication. Early diagnosis and prompt drug withdrawal are essential determinants of prognosis.