# Case series: Chemical pneumonitis caused by exposure of sodium ibandronate powder

## TL;DR

Two pharmaceutical workers developed chemical pneumonitis after inhaling sodium ibandronate powder, but recovered with glucocorticoid treatment.

## Contribution

Reports two new cases of chemical pneumonitis caused by sodium ibandronate powder exposure in pharmaceutical workers.

## Key findings

- Both cases showed symptoms of chemical pneumonitis after accidental powder inhalation.
- One case exhibited fibrotic changes while the other did not, showing varied CT appearances.
- Glucocorticoid treatment led to complete resolution of lung lesions in both patients.

## Abstract

This report presents two cases of chemical pneumonitis caused by the exposure of sodium ibandronate powder, a bisphosphonate used for treating osteoporosis. They are both pharmaceutical workers, and they inhaled the powder after an accidental spill in the lab. They developed similar symptoms, but different imaging features, only one showed fibrotic changes. After the blood test and bronchoscopy examination, they both diagnosed as chemical pneumonitis. Their symptoms improved after treatment with glucocorticoids. Their lung lesions resolved completely after continued treatment. The findings suggest that the importance of appropriate safety measures in environments where pharmaceutical powders may be handled, such as in the pharmaceutical industry. Chemical pneumonitis from inhaled sodium ibandronate can have varying CT appearances and may benefit from glucocorticoids therapy.