Sulfasalazine induced lung toxicity masquerading as sarcoidosis--case report and review of the literature

Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis. 2013 Nov 25;30(3):226-30.

Abstract

A commonly prescribed drug for Rheumatoid Arthritis (R.A) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) treatment, Sulfasalazine can occasionally cause lung toxicity such as interstitial pneumonitis and eosinophilic pneumonias. We report a case of a 46 year old female being treated with Sulfasalazine for Ulcerative Colitis, who developed shortness of breath and a radiographic pattern of hilar adenopathy. Biopsy showed granulomas that resembled Sarcoidosis. We review different presentations of Sulfasalazine induced lung disease and describe the first known case of Sulfasalazine lung toxicity mimicking Sarcoidosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid
  • Colitis, Ulcerative* / drug therapy
  • Granuloma
  • Humans
  • Sarcoidosis / drug therapy
  • Sulfasalazine* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Sulfasalazine