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Toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with acetaminophen ingestion
A Halevi1, D Ben-Amitai, B Z Garty
1Department of Pediatrics, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Beilinson Campus, Petah Tiqva.
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|February 11, 2000
Summary
Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) can be triggered by acetaminophen, a common over-the-counter medication. Re-exposure to acetaminophen led to a severe reaction, highlighting the risks of drug rechallenge.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a severe, life-threatening mucocutaneous reaction.
- TEN can be idiopathic or associated with infections, autoimmune disorders, malignancy, or drug hypersensitivity.
Observation:
- A pediatric case of TEN following acetaminophen ingestion is presented.
- Clinical evaluation and skin biopsy confirmed the TEN diagnosis.
- An allergist-supervised acetaminophen rechallenge provoked a similar severe skin reaction.
Findings:
- Acetaminophen, a widely available over-the-counter medication, can cause TEN.
- Drug rechallenge in suspected TEN cases carries significant risks of severe adverse events.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for acetaminophen to induce TEN.
- Avoidance of drug rechallenge is crucial in managing suspected drug-induced TEN to prevent severe complications.