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Fixed drug eruption due to foscarnet
G M Connolly1, B G Gazzard, D A Hawkins
1Department of Medicine, Westminster Hospital, London.
Genitourinary Medicine
|April 1, 1990
Summary
A case of fixed drug eruption (FDE) caused by foscarnet is reported. This antiviral is a crucial alternative for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections in immunosuppressed patients.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections pose a significant threat to immunosuppressed individuals.
- Ganciclovir (DHPG) is the primary licensed antiviral for CMV, but has limitations.
- Foscarnet offers an alternative antiviral with a distinct toxicity profile.
Observation:
- A case of fixed drug eruption (FDE) was observed in a patient treated with foscarnet.
- Foscarnet is increasingly used on a compassionate basis for CMV treatment.
Findings:
- Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a potential adverse reaction to foscarnet.
- Foscarnet presents a valuable alternative to ganciclovir for CMV management.
- Unlike ganciclovir, foscarnet does not appear to cause bone marrow suppression.
Implications:
- Awareness of foscarnet-induced FDE is crucial for clinicians managing CMV infections.
- Foscarnet's lack of bone marrow suppression is particularly beneficial for AIDS patients on zidovudine.
- This case highlights the importance of considering drug-induced dermatological reactions in antiviral therapy.