[Recurrent alveolitis caused by amiodarone]

Abstract

More recently a few cases of pulmonary toxicity due to amiodarone administration and reversed following drug discontinuation and corticosteroid therapy have been reported. An unusual case of recurrence of amiodarone pulmonary toxicity is described. After receiving amiodarone 1.200 mg/week for 6 month a 54-year-old woman showed clear signs of pulmonary alveolitis with ray signs of diffuse pulmonary infiltrates. The pulmonary symptoms recurred after discontinuing corticosteroidis 17 months after amiodarone was stopped and were associated with a persistent amiodarone level in broncho alveolar lavage. Only after 20 months the complete resolution of pulmonary symptoms was achieved.