[Acute interstitial pneumopathy with fever caused by hydroxyurea].

Abstract

Fever, and in some cases interstitial pneumonia, in patients given hydroxyurea generally suggests an infection. However, 15 cases of pneumonia have been reported as caused by hydroxyurea in patients treated for a myeloproliferative syndrome. Delay to onset is 3 to 8 weeks after initiating treatment. The course is favorable after withdrawal, with or without corticosteroids. Fever may be the only sign of a drug reaction, resolving with withdrawal and recurring at re-challenge. The underlying mechanism remains unknown. Definitive cure can be achieved by discontinuing hydroxyurea, avoiding the need for further investigations.