Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome Associated with Acute Nitrofurantoin Toxicity

Abstract

A case of adult respiratory distress syndrome associated with nitrofurantoin use is described. The patient was successfully managed with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) through a tightly fitting face mask; clinical deterioration followed discontinuation of the CPAP, with improvement occurring when it was restarted. Acute nitrofurantoin pleuropulmonary reactions are reviewed, and CPAP by face mask is discussed

Fatal Cholestatic Hepatitis and Multisystem Failure Associated with Nitrofurantoin

“…Adult respiratory distress synd rome seconda ry to nitrofurantoin administration has been described (5). The authors were able to reverse the respiratory distress with ventil at or y support and continuou s positive airway pre ssure.…”

Two unusual pathological reactions to nitrofurantoin: case reports

“…The acute form is the more common, occurring several hours to days following administration of the drug, and is characterized both clinically and pathologically as eosinophilic pneumonia. A single case of diffuse alveolar damage (adult respiratory distress syndrome) has also been reported (Israel, Gross & Bomba 1980). Chronic pulmonary reactions have an insidious onset, with gradual development over 6 months to 6 years of interstitial fibrosis, resembling the organizing phase of diffuse alveolar damage or fibrosing alveolitis (Demeter et al 1979).…”