What is your approach to evaluating amiodarone induced interstitial pneumonitis?
2 Answers
Mednet Member
Pulmonology · University of Colorado School of Medicine
There are no definitive histopathological or radiological findings of amiodarone toxicity. For example, foamy lipid laden macrophages are reported but this reflects exposure, not injury, and these findings are present without interstitial lung disease related to amiodarone. High HUs have been report...
Mednet Member
Pulmonology · Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals
I agree with Dr. Steele's approach. As a reminder, individuals taking amiodarone should have periodic lung function testing focusing on the diffusing capacity (DLCO). A decreasing DLCO is sensitive and may detect toxicity before symptoms arise. Amiodarone lung toxicity is not as common as when the d...