Published online Apr 26, 2023. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i12.2832
Peer-review started: December 30, 2022
First decision: February 2, 2023
Revised: February 7, 2023
Accepted: March 30, 2023
Article in press: March 30, 2023
Published online: April 26, 2023
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a global problem, causing significant morbidity and mortality. Furazolidone is recommended to eradicate H. pylori infections in China owing to the highly associated antibiotic resistance.
This article presents two cases of lung injury caused by furazolidone treatment of H. pylori infection and the relevant literature review. Two patients developed symptoms, including fever, cough, and fatigue after receiving a course of furazolidone for H. pylori infection. Chest computed tomography showed bilateral interstitial infiltrates. Laboratory studies revealed elevated blood eosinophil count. After discontinuing furazolidone with or without the use of corticosteroids, the symptoms improved rapidly. A PubMed database literature search revealed three reported cases of lung injury suggestive of furazolidone-induced pulmonary toxicity.
Clinicians should be aware of the side effects associated with the administration of furazolidone to eradicate H. pylori infection.
Core Tip: Furazolidone should be used as a treatment option for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication in China because of high antibiotic resistance. We present two cases of furazolidone-induced pulmonary hypersensitivity determined by the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale score. Clinicians should be aware of the adverse effects of furazolidone, especially as it is widely used in the treatment of H. pylori infection in China.