ANTIRHEUMATIC DRUG-REACTIONS IN THE LUNG

Drug-induced lung disease during treatment with antirheumatic drugs should be considered in all patients receiving these agents who develop new pulmonary symptoms. When a potential drug-related reaction is identified, the possible offending agents should be discontinued, appropriate respiratory support initiated, and a thorough investigation for other causes of respiratory disease launched to exclude infection or other pulmonary processes. Lung biopsy may be needed to define the disorder completely. In patients with acute pneumonitis, the use of corticosteroids should be considered. Although significant morbidity and even mortality may occur with drug-induced pulmonary events, proper and prompt evaluation and treatment of these disorders can often result in complete resolution of the pulmonary disease. © 1993 Baillière Tindall.