Adult respiratory distress syndrome induced by a Chinese medicine, Kamisyoyo-san

Abstract

We report the first case of Kamisyoyo-san-induced adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A 59-year-old female was given Kamisyoyo-san for treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. She then presented with a respiratory illness having clinical, radiologic and functional characteristics of ARDS. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid showed an increased number of lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils. The lymphocyte stimulation test with Kamisyoyo-san was positive.