Rounded atelectasis and respiratory compromise secondary to pergolide use

Respirology. 2009 Aug;14(6):906-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1843.2009.01582.x. Epub 2009 Jul 29.

Abstract

Rounded atelectasis is an unusual form of peripheral atelectasis that develops as a consequence of pleural disease. It is usually thought to be a benign process after malignancy and infection have been excluded. Pergolide is an ergot-derived dopamine agonist that has been associated with pleuropulmonary fibrosis and fibrotic cardiac valve disease. Pergolide-associated rounded atelectasis has occurred in patients with known asbestos exposure. We report a patient with no known asbestos exposure who developed rounded atelectasis and subsequent symptomatic diffuse restrictive pleural disease. Physicians should consider drugs early on in their work-up of rounded atelectasis as discontinuation of the agent may reverse the process.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antiparkinson Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antiparkinson Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Parkinson Disease / drug therapy
  • Pergolide / adverse effects*
  • Pergolide / therapeutic use
  • Pleural Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Pleural Diseases / diagnosis
  • Pulmonary Atelectasis / chemically induced*
  • Pulmonary Atelectasis / diagnosis

Substances

  • Antiparkinson Agents
  • Pergolide