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Vancomycin-induced acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis.
Bruna Dellatorre Diniz1, Dikshita Poudel2, Tracey Mersfelder3
1Internal Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA brunadellatorred@gmail.com.
BMJ Case Reports
|January 27, 2025
Summary
A rare skin rash, acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis, can occur after vancomycin antibiotic treatment. Early recognition and supportive care are key for managing this antibiotic-induced dermatological reaction.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Antibiotics are known to cause various dermatological adverse reactions.
- Distinguishing between different drug-induced rashes can be challenging.
- Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a specific type of drug eruption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of AGEP following vancomycin treatment.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing and differentiating drug-induced dermatological conditions.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a female patient in her 30s.
- Clinical observation of dermatological adverse reactions post-vancomycin therapy.
- Documentation of patient's response to supportive care.
Main Results:
- The patient developed acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis after receiving vancomycin for cellulitis.
- Discontinuation of vancomycin and supportive care led to rash improvement.
- The case illustrates a distinct dermatological presentation of a drug reaction.
Conclusions:
- Vancomycin can induce acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis.
- Prompt identification and management of drug reactions are crucial for patient care.
- Differentiating AGEP from other rashes ensures appropriate supportive treatment is initiated.

