(137) Rare/Novel Case of Quetiapine-Induced Pneumonitis
Abstract: Background/Significance: Quetiapine is an FDA-approved atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Quetiapine is also regarded as an effective and safe treatment for patients with delirium. We aimed to investigate the association between Quetiapine exposure and rare / novel complication of quetiapine exposure which is pneumonitis during hospitalization. Quetiapine can be associated with increased risk of pneumonitis or DILD (Drug-Induced Interstitial Lung Disease) at the beginning of treatment.
Methods: We present a case report on a 39-year-old patient who acquired rare pneumonitis 2 months after starting Quetiapine and discuss the risk of this adverse outcome in clinical practice and its management.
We proceeded with the literature review using Cochrane, PubMed, Embase, Clinical Key, Medline, Web of science. The literature review was done using the following search terms; Quetiapine induced pneumonia, Quetiapine induced Pneumonitis, Quetiapine and Pneumonia, Interstitial Pneumonia and Quetiapine, Seroquel and Pneumonia. Seroquel induced dysphagia, Antipsychotic use and Pneumonia.
Results: Our literature review demonstrated strong positive correlation between Quetiapine causing a rare adverse outcome of Pneumonitis. Despite being a complicated case we were able to use a current literate review to guide the treatment of a Quetiapine Induced Pneumonitis.
Conclusion/Implications: Through this case discussion and review of current literature, we present information on the possible mechanism by which quetiapine can lead to this rare complication of pneumonia, pneumonitis or DILD. The literature supports a strong positive correlation between quetiapine causing pneumonitis or DILD. We alert clinicians to be aware of signs and symptoms of this rarely rare complication and provide treatment recommendations for quetiapine-induced pneumonitis.
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