Paclitaxel-induced Interstitial Pneumonia after Drug-eluting Stent Implantation: Report of a Fatal Case

Abstract

We report a case of paclitaxel-eluting stent implantation in an angina patient who developed interstitial pneumonia a few days afterward, and succumbed to fatal respiratory dysfunction despite corticosteroid therapy. Paclitaxel is an anti-neoplastic agent currently used as a coating substance for coronary stents to reduce the rate of restenosis. Pulmonary toxicity related to paclitaxel is not very common; however, this adverse event may on occasion be lethal. Although the efficacy and safety of drug-eluting stents for the treatment of ischemic heart disease is well established, physicians should keep in mind that paclitaxel-eluting stents have the potential to cause interstitial pneumonia.