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Updated: May 22, 2026
12:23
Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
Published on: October 12, 2012
Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria. alexis.sidoroff@i-med.ac.at
Chemical Immunology and Allergy
|May 23, 2012
Summary
Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) presents with widespread pustules, fever, and leukocytosis. This drug-induced reaction typically resolves quickly upon withdrawal of the offending agent.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Clinical Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a distinct dermatological reaction pattern.
- It is characterized by acute onset of nonfollicular sterile pustules on erythematous skin, accompanied by fever and leukocytosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the key clinical and histological features of AGEP.
- To identify common drug triggers and outline the typical course and management of AGEP.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations and histological findings in AGEP.
- Analysis of reported causative agents, focusing on frequently implicated drugs.
- Description of the natural resolution course after causative agent withdrawal.
Main Results:
- Clinical hallmarks include widespread pustules, erythema, fever, and elevated white blood cell count.
- Histopathology reveals subcorneal or intraepidermal pustules with dermal edema, neutrophils, and eosinophils.
- Common triggers include antibiotics (ampicillin/amoxicillin, quinolones), sulfonamides, terbinafine, (hydroxy)chloroquine, and diltiazem.
Conclusions:
- AGEP is primarily a drug reaction pattern with characteristic clinical and histological findings.
- Prompt identification and withdrawal of the causative agent lead to rapid resolution.
- While often acute and severe, AGEP generally has a favorable prognosis with appropriate management.
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