title: Potential link between HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) use and interstitial lung disease.
abstract: Over a 3-year period, seven patients who were taking HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) presented to our respiratory service with interstitial pneumonitis. Clinical course varied, with the condition responding to prednisolone treatment and cessation of statins in three patients, and progressing slowly despite this management in another three, while one patient died of associated cardiac disease. While a causative role cannot be confirmed, clinicians should be aware of the possible association.
authors.affiliation: Geelong Hospital, Geelong, Victoria, Australia. timw@barwonhealth.org.au
authors.forename: Tim
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Walker
authors.forename: Joe
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: McCaffery
authors.forename: Chris
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Steinfort
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017563:Lung Diseases, Interstitial / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011239:Prednisolone / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D005938:Glucocorticoids; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; D011239:Prednisolone