Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reaction to Piperacillin-Tazobactam: A Case of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare condition characterized by an exaggerated immune system response to triggers such as infections or drugs. It is characterized by blistering and exfoliation of the skin and affects mucosal surfaces, including the eyes, buccal cavity, and genitals. We report a case of a 50-year-old male who developed symptoms of SJS following a recent hospital admission for acute appendicitis The patient presented with fever, erythematous patches on the palms, abdomen, groins, and oral mucosa. The onset of symptoms occurred approximately four days after discharge from the hospital, where the patient had received treatment including intravenous antibiotics (Piperacillin-Tazobactam), ranitidine, tramadol, and intravenous fluids. He was diagnosed with SJS based on clinical and histopathological findings and was treated with supportive care and corticosteroids. He recovered after one week of hospitalization. This case highlights the importance of recognizing the potential risk of developing SJS following drug administration and the need for prompt identification and management of the condition to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.