Final answer:
Drug-induced lung disease is caused by exposure to certain medications such as chemotherapeutic agents, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs, contributing to lung injury and inflammation. Treatment involves discontinuing the offending drug and may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drug-induced lung disease refers to a spectrum of lung disorders caused by the exposure to certain medications. These offending agents include a variety of drugs and can manifest as lung injury, inflammation, or even as malignancies. Among the primary culprits are chemotherapeutic agents, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and certain heart medications. Drugs such as bleomycin, amiodarone, methotrexate, and nitrofurantoin are well-known causes of drug-induced lung injury. For example, chemotherapeutic agents can result in acute and chronic pneumonitis or pulmonary fibrosis, while antibiotics like nitrofurantoin may cause both acute and chronic pulmonary reactions.
It is important for health professionals to be aware of drug-induced lung diseases, as they have diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Treatment typically involves discontinuing the offending agent and providing supportive care. In certain cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
Considering that some over-the-counter medications can also lead to lung damage, vigilance in medication history taking is crucial for diagnosis and management of drug-induced lung disorders.