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Published on: September 7, 2022
Azithromycin-induced rash in infectious mononucleosis
Ghenwa K Dakdouki1, Khalil H Obeid, Souha S Kanj
1Division of Infectious Diseases, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Abstract:
Antibiotic-induced skin eruption in the setting of infectious mononucleosis is a common and well-documented clinical scenario. The skin lesions are non-specific and the mechanisms causing them are unclear. Several reports have described this entity with different antibiotic classes, mainly penicillins. Only 1 case of azithromycin-induced skin eruption has previously been described in this setting. Herein, we report the second case.
Insights
Antibiotic-induced skin rash is common with infectious mononucleosis. This report details a rare case of azithromycin-induced rash, highlighting the need for awareness in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antibiotic-induced skin eruptions are frequently observed in patients with infectious mononucleosis.
- The underlying mechanisms for these reactions remain poorly understood.
- Penicillins are the most commonly implicated antibiotic class.
Observation:
- This case report describes a patient experiencing a skin eruption during infectious mononucleosis treatment.
- The patient was treated with azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic.
- This represents the second documented instance of azithromycin-induced skin eruption in this clinical context.
Findings:
- The skin lesions observed were non-specific in nature.
- The patient's reaction was attributed to azithromycin, despite its rarity.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider azithromycin as a potential cause of skin eruptions in patients with infectious mononucleosis.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of antibiotic-induced rashes in mononucleosis.
- Increased awareness may improve diagnosis and patient management.
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