[A case of acetaminophen-induced pneumonitis]

Nihon Kyobu Shikkan Gakkai Zasshi. 1992 Jul;30(7):1322-6.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

A 20-year-old woman took 1.2 g of acetaminophen for toothache. She subsequently developed a dry cough, pyrexia, and dyspnea. Chest X-ray revealed diffuse reticulo-nodular shadows in both lung fields. Broncho-alveolar lavage examination showed a marked increase in the total cell number and an increase in the percentage of eosinophils, neutrophils, and lymphocytes. Because drug-induced pneumonitis was suspected, all drugs were stopped and she was administered methylprednisolone. Consequently her symptoms resolved, and pulmonary function and chest X-ray findings improved remarkably. The lymphocyte stimulation test was positive for Norshin and its acetaminophen element. Based on these findings, the diagnosis of acetaminophen-induced pneumonitis was made. Acetaminophen intoxication is well-known, but to our knowledge this is the first reported case of acetaminophen-induced allergic pneumonitis in Japan.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Acetaminophen / adverse effects*
  • Adult
  • Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic / chemically induced*
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans

Substances

  • Acetaminophen