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Genotypic and Phenotypic Characteristics of Co-Trimoxazole-Induced Cutaneous Adverse Reactions
Wimolsiri Iamsumang1, Kumutnart Chanprapaph1, Chonlaphat Sukasem2
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Background:
Co-trimoxazole has been reported as a common culprit drug for various cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADRs). However, information on genotypic and phenotypic characteristics is still limited. We aimed to study clinical characteristics, genetic suitability, laboratory findings, and treatment outcomes in patients with co-trimoxazole-induced CADR and determine variables associated with severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs).
Methods:
The medical records of all patients diagnosed with co-trimoxazole-induced CADR during October 2015 and October 2021 were reviewed. Clinical characteristics and laboratory investigation with an emphasis on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and HLA-DRB1 results linked to subtypes of cutaneous adverse reactions were evaluated.
Results:
Seventy-two patients diagnosed with co-trimoxazole-induced CADR were included in the study. Mean age at diagnosis was 38.0 ± 14.6 years old, and 72% were female. Subtypes of reactions included maculopapular eruption (MPE; 56.9%), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS; 23.6%), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS; 12.5%), fixed drug eruption (4.2%), and urticaria (2.8%). Characteristics that were significantly associated with SCARs included male gender (OR = 3.01, 95% CI: 1.04-8.75), HIV infection (OR = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.13-10.75), prophylactic use of co-trimoxazole (OR = 4.89, 95% CI: 1.54-15.57), and co-trimoxazole administration longer than 10 days (OR = 7.65, 95% CI: 2.57-22.78). HLA-B*38:02 was associated with co-trimoxazole-induced SJS, while HLA-A*11:01, HLA-B*13:01, and HLA-DRB1*12:01 were associated with co-trimoxazole-induced DRESS. HLA-B*52:01 was associated with co-trimoxazole-induced MPE.
Conclusions:
Co-trimoxazole could induce various phenotypes of CADRs. Genotypic and phenotypic factors that may potentially predict co-trimoxazole-induced SCARs include male gender, HIV infection, prophylactic and prolonged drug use, as well as the presence of HLA-A*11:01, HLA-B*13:01, HLA-B*38:02, or HLA-DRB1*12:01 alleles.
Insights
Co-trimoxazole can cause various skin reactions, with male gender, HIV, and prolonged use increasing severe risks. Specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) types are linked to different reaction subtypes, aiding in predicting severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCARs).
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenomics
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Co-trimoxazole is a frequent cause of cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADRs).
- Limited data exists on the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of these reactions.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for predicting and managing severe cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate clinical features, genetic predispositions, laboratory findings, and treatment outcomes in co-trimoxazole-induced CADRs.
- To identify variables associated with severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs).
- To explore the link between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) types and specific CADR phenotypes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for co-trimoxazole-induced CADR cases (October 2015 - October 2021).
- Evaluation of clinical characteristics and laboratory investigations.
- Emphasis on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and HLA-DRB1 genotyping in relation to reaction subtypes.
Main Results:
- Seventy-two patients were included; 72% were female, with a mean age of 38.0 years.
- Common reactions included maculopapular eruption (56.9%), DRESS (23.6%), and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (12.5%).
- Male gender, HIV infection, prophylactic, and prolonged co-trimoxazole use were associated with SCARs. Specific HLA alleles (e.g., HLA-B*38:02, HLA-A*11:01) were linked to SJS, DRESS, and MPE.
Conclusions:
- Co-trimoxazole can induce diverse CADR phenotypes.
- Predictors for co-trimoxazole-induced SCARs include male gender, HIV, prophylactic/prolonged use, and specific HLA alleles.
- Genotypic and phenotypic analysis offers insights into predicting severe drug reactions.
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