Atypical Case of Minoxidil-Induced Generalized Anasarca and Pleuropericardial Effusion

    June 2021 in “ Cureus ”
    Wahab A Gbadamosi, Jacqueline Melvin, M González López
    TLDR Minoxidil can cause severe body swelling and fluid buildup, which improves after stopping the drug and using diuretics.
    This case report described a 70-year-old male with uncontrolled hypertension who developed generalized anasarca and pleuropericardial effusion while on minoxidil 10 mg twice daily. The patient presented with symptoms including body swelling, extremity pain, dyspnea, and abdominal distention. Physical examination revealed jugular vein pressure, lung crackles, abdominal distention, and pitting edema. Laboratory and imaging findings confirmed pericardial and pleural effusion, abdominal ascites, and anasarca. Discontinuation of minoxidil and initiation of intravenous diuretics led to clinical improvement. The report highlighted the importance of considering minoxidil-induced anasarca as a differential diagnosis in patients using this medication.
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