Acute respiratory failure and pulmonary fibrosis secondary to administration of mycophenolate mofetil.

BACKGROUND

We report the first documented case of pulmonary toxicity to mycophenolate mofetil in this article.

METHODS

A 51-year-old woman experienced systemic reactions beginning 10 days after cadaveric renal transplantation.

RESULTS

Recurrent respiratory failure and documented progressive pulmonary fibrosis ensued. Cultures were negative and other agents were discontinued. It was not until the mycophenolate was stopped did the patient improve.

CONCLUSIONS

Mycophenolate mofetil can cause acute respiratory failure simulating opportunistic infection or pulmonary edema. If not recognized, this may lead to the rapid development of severe pulmonary fibrosis, some of which may not be reversible.