Case of fatal toxic epidermal necrolysis due to cardiac catheterization dye

Brooke T Baldwin1, Mary H Lien, Hammad Khan

  • 1University of South Florida, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, College of Medicine,Tampa, FL 33612, USA.

Insights

A rare cardiac catheterization complication, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), occurred due to a nonionic radiocontrast agent. This case highlights an extremely rare but fatal adverse reaction to a common diagnostic and therapeutic procedure.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Cardiac catheterization is a frequent diagnostic and therapeutic procedure.
  • Invasive procedures carry inherent risks of complications.
  • Most complications are well-documented and manageable by experienced cardiologists.

Observation:

  • A patient undergoing cardiac catheterization experienced an extremely rare complication.
  • The complication was identified as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).

Findings:

  • Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) was directly linked to the nonionic radiocontrast agent used.
  • This represents a fatal adverse reaction to the contrast medium.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for rare, severe adverse drug reactions even with common procedures.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding contrast agent safety in cardiac catheterization.
  • Underscores the importance of reporting and analyzing rare complications in medical practice.

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