The Drug-Induced Respiratory Disease Website

XXIII.b

XXIII - Hemoglobinopathies (acquired, reversible)

A >5% pulsed vs. calculated oxygen saturation gap

Last update 17/06/2026

See under and typical of methemoglobinemia. Can also be observed in some carbon monoxide poisoning cases

No drugs are linked to this pattern.

Diagnosing DIRD

Drug and radiation history

Drug singularity - Correct identification of the drug

Consistent timing of exposure v. onset of symptoms

Clinical, imaging, BAL, pathological pattern consistent with the specific drug

Careful exlusion of another cause

Remission of symptoms with removal of drug

Recurrence with rechallenge (rarely advisable)

Causality assessment

No activity has been recorded yet.