Lichenoid Drug Eruption Secondary to Adalimumab: A Case Report

Adalimumab, an anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), is widely prescribed for many autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as hidradenitis suppurative, psoriasis, etc. We report a case of lichenoid drug eruption secondary to adalimumab, a rare side effect, in a 62-year-old female with ulcerative colitis. The skin eruption appeared two weeks after initiating adalimumab. A skin biopsy was taken, and the histopathological findings correlated with a lichenoid drug eruption. Although rare, drug-induced lichen planus has been associated with adalimumab. Early recognition and a high index of suspicion are key in the prompt management of these cases. The discontinuation of adalimumab must be carefully weighed against its therapeutic benefits, as the discontinuation might trigger a severe form of inflammation in the primary autoimmune disease being treated. Extreme caution, early intervention, and a multidisciplinary approach are best for the overall well-being and optimal care of the individual.