[Toxic or drug-induced granulomatous reactions]

Abstract

Purpose: To review the current concepts in toxic and drug-induced granulomatous reactions.

Current knowledge and key points: Granulomatous reactions are induced by various chemical agents, treatments or foreign bodies. According to the breaking way into the organism, the lungs, the liver, the kidneys or the skin are mainly concerned, but systemic granulomatosis mimicking sarcoidosis is possible. Therefore systematic analysis of environmental, occupational and leisure exposures and quest for medical or illicit drugs is mandatory to identify the responsible agent. Over the recent period, chronic beryllium disease, interferon-alpha therapy, BCG immunotherapy and allopurinol have been more frequently involved.

Future prospects and projects: Literature review uncovers a variety of potential toxic exposures and highlights the necessity of a clear sighted research to identify them.