Amiodarone pulmonary toxicity: report of two cases associated with rapidly progressive fatal adult respiratory distress syndrome after pulmonary angiography

Abstract

Use of amiodarone, an investigational antidysrhythmic agent, has been associated with cases of pulmonary toxicity. The mechanism of amiodarone pulmonary toxicity is unknown, and recommendations for the assessment and treatment of patients with this condition continue to evolve. In two patients with clinically diagnosed amiodarone pulmonary toxicity, a rapidly progressive and fatal adult respiratory distress syndrome developed after pulmonary angiography. Physicians should be aware of the potential for serious complications of pulmonary angiography in patients with presumed or clinically diagnosed amiodarone toxicity.