Toxicidade pulmonar induzida por amiodarona: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

Amiodarone is a widely used antiarrhythmic drug in clinical practice, especially for the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation. However, its use is often limited by a range of adverse effects, with pulmonary toxicity being one of the most serious and frequently underdiagnosed complications. Clinically, amiodarone-induced pulmonary toxicity can present in various forms, ranging from chronic interstitial pneumonitis to acute respiratory failure. The diagnosis is often challenging due to the similarity of clinical manifestations with other pulmonary conditions, as well as the lack of specific tests for confirmation. In the most common form of presentation, interstitial pneumonia, patients diagnosed early usually have a good prognosis after amiodarone discontinuation and, when indicated, the use of corticosteroids. However, more acute forms of toxicity can lead to high morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to be familiar with this complication and maintain a high level of clinical suspicion. This narrative review aims to address the pathogenesis, risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management of amiodarone-induced pulmonary toxicity, contributing to a better understanding and management of this potentially serious condition.