Churg-Strauss Syndrome following PTU Treatment. (23rd February 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Quax, R. A. M.; Swaak, A. J. G.; Baggen, M. G. A.
• Other Names: Hashimoto Hiroshi Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: International journal of rheumatology. Volume 2009(2009)
• Publication Date: 2009-02-23
• Subjects: Rheumatology -- Periodicals; Rheumatology; Rheumatology; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Periodicals; 616.723
• DOI: 10.1155/2009/504105
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1687-9260

Abstract

Abstract : Propylthiouracil (PTU) is a frequently prescribed drug in the treatment of hyperthyroidism. The use of PTU is, however, accompanied by numerous potentially serious side effects including vasculitis. PTU-related vasculitides can present as haematuria, pulmonary haemorrhage, or cutaneous lesion together with aspecific symptoms such as fever, myalgia, arthralgia, and fatigue. Cerebral involvement is seldom observed. We present a 49-year-old female with Graves' disease and asthma, who developed paresis of the proximal extremities, eosinophilia, pulmonary, and cutaneous lesions following treatment with PTU. A cerebral vasculitis consistent with Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) was suspected. Although cerebral involvement is seldom observed with PTU treatment, cerebral vasculitis should be considered in patients developing CNS symptoms.