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[Imatinib-induced purpuric vasculitis]
M Hamm1, J P Touraud, L Mannone
1Service de Dermatologie, Hôpital du Bocage, Dijon.
Introduction:
Imatinib (Glivec) is a new molecule that specifically inhibits tyrosine-kinase activity and is used in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia. Cutaneous side effects with imatinib are frequent. We report the first case of purpuric vasculitis probably due to this drug.
Observation:
A 65 year-old man was treated for chronic myeloid leukemia with imatinib. After two months of treatment, he developed an erythematous and squamatous on the trunk, which regressed spontaneously one week after suspension of the product. Imatinib was reintroduced two months later. The patient immediately developed a painful, infiltrated, purpuric eruption on the legs. Histological examination revealed vasculitis compatible with the diagnosis of toxiderma. Since treatment could not be suspended, oral corticosteroids were introduced and the lesions cleared within three weeks.
Discussion:
Adverse cutaneous reactions to imatinib are frequent. Their physiopathological mechanism is unknown.