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Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Associated With Chlordiazepoxide
Tara Jawaro1, Ayan Kumar2, Oleksandr Pistun3
1Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
Summary
A rare case of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) was linked to chlordiazepoxide, a drug not typically associated with this severe skin reaction. This finding highlights the importance of considering less common drug triggers for SJS.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacovigilance
- Toxicology
Background:
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare, life-threatening mucocutaneous reaction.
- While often linked to specific medications, atypical drug associations require ongoing investigation.
- Chlordiazepoxide, a benzodiazepine, is not commonly implicated in SJS.
Observation:
- A 29-year-old female developed a widespread rash and pruritus after 3.5 weeks of chlordiazepoxide use.
- Initial presentation included erythematous lesions and mucosal erosions, progressing to involve eyes and genitalia.
- Biopsy confirmed full-thickness necrotizing keratinocytes, consistent with SJS.
Findings:
- A strong temporal association was observed between chlordiazepoxide initiation and the onset of SJS symptoms.
- This case represents one of the few documented instances of chlordiazepoxide-induced SJS.
- The patient's clinical presentation and biopsy results strongly support chlordiazepoxide as the causative agent.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need to consider chlordiazepoxide as a potential trigger for SJS.
- It emphasizes the importance of thorough medication history in diagnosing severe adverse drug reactions.
- Further pharmacovigilance is warranted for benzodiazepines regarding SJS risk.
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