Nitrofurantoin-Induced Lung Injury: A Reminder of an Overlooked Threat

Nitrofurantoin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic for urinary tract infection (UTI) treatment and prophylaxis. Although relatively rare, nitrofurantoin can cause a spectrum of lung injuries, from acute hypersensitivity reactions that might be fatal to chronic reactions involving fibrosis. Therefore, treating physicians’ awareness and regular monitoring is essential for early recognition, drug withdrawal, avoiding unnecessary treatment, and preventing irreversible fibrosis. Here, we report the case of a 77-year-old woman who had been hospitalized with interstitial lung disease due to chronic nitrofurantoin therapy. Despite the severity of symptoms and the extent of radiological lung involvement, she returned to her clinical and radiological baseline shortly following the drug cessation.