Is there a connection between pulmonary embolism & TB

[stressed74]

I recently had 3 pulmonary embolism crisis within the last 2 years and tested positive for tb for the first time. Is there some connection since they both affect the lungs? Since I am already taking coumidin,crestor and niacin, will the 9mnth tb treatment burn out my liver?

[National Jewish Health]

Three pulmonary emboli within a 2 year period is a serious problem, assuming that each has been confirmed.  It is good that you are on Coumadin® (warfarin) but, a detailed attempt to discover the factors that have predisposed you to thrombosis and embolization, such a comprehensive diagnostic investigation, should be initiated without delay.

There is no direct connection between pulmonary emboli and tuberculosis (TB), including skin test conversion.  Yes, the prophylactic administration of isoniazid (INH) for a TB chest conversion may cause inflammation of the liver, but does so in a minority of individuals taking the medicine.  However, there is also the risk of liver inflammation due to the medicine Crestor® (rosuvastatin) and it is conceivable that there could be an additive effect of Crestor® (rosuvastatin) and INH.  In addition, niacin may increase the risk of muscle disease called myopathy when used with Crestor® (rosuvastatin).  Crestor® (rosuvastatin) significantly increases the INR (enhances the effect of Coumadin to make your blood “thinner” than it would be alone.

If you have a documented history of skin test conversion, INH prophylaxis is appropriate.  But given the above medicine interactions, you should have frequent monitoring of both your anticoagulation status (INR) and your liver enzymes.  You should discuss this with your doctor.

Good luck.

[stressed74]

I got my 1st PE after a breast reduction surgery, After my release from the hospital, my doctor prescribed the wrong dosage to maintain sufficient INR levels, so I has another crisis. Then after 1yr of coumadin therapy, I was taken off the drug.I injured my leg and took prednisone for1wk. The day after I came off prednisone, I got another clot. Is the something I could have done differently?