Drug induced erythema multiforme: two case series with review of literature

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Dermatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Erythema Multiforme (EM) is an acute, inflammatory mucocutaneous disorder.
• While often initially presenting in the oral mucosa, EM can progress to more severe skin involvement.
• The etiology of EM is complex, with infections (e.g., herpes simplex, Mycoplasma pneumoniae) and medications frequently implicated, posing diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report two cases of Erythema Multiforme potentially precipitated by specific drug exposures.
• To review the etiologic agents, pathogenic mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies for EM relevant to dental professionals.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation of two patients diagnosed with Erythema Multiforme.
• Literature review focusing on the association between medications and EM, and its implications for dental practice.

Main Results:

• Two cases of EM are presented where Dioclofenac sodium and Amoxycilline were identified as potential precipitating factors.
• The review highlights the varied clinical manifestations and diagnostic difficulties associated with EM.

Conclusions:

• Certain medications, including Dioclofenac sodium and Amoxycilline, may act as triggers for Erythema Multiforme.
• Understanding the potential causes and clinical spectrum of EM is crucial for effective dental management and patient care.