Erythrodermia Development after Ibuprofen Use in an Infant and Review of Literature

Abstract

Erythrodermia, also known as exfoliative dermatitis, is an inflammatory and life-threatening disorder presenting with erythema and squamous lesions covering more than 90% of the body. When a large case series is evaluated for etiological reasons, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, specifically ibuprofen, should be considered be one of the rarest predisposing factors. A 10-month-old girl had been given ibuprofen because of high fever and agitation. Hours after ibuprofen use, she had developed generalized erythema and presented to our hospital. After antihistaminic and steroid injections in emergency, the rash did not vanish and she was admitted to our clinic. Her complete blood count, C-reactive protein and routine biochemistry values were found to be normal. In addition to electrolyte therapy, dexamethasone was given for the rash. On consultation with dermatology, erythrodermia, probably due to ibuprofen, was suspected and topical eau de goulard, hydrocortisone cream and diphenhydramine were added to the therapy. She was monitorized for vital signs and kept warm. At the fifth day of admission; the rash resolved and she was discharged. As a result; although erythrodermia has been frequently reported to be associated with various underlying diseases such as skin disorders, medications, and malignancies; in our case it seemed to be caused by ibuprofen. Additionally, the patients who have sthis kind of skin lesion should be questioned for any medication being used. It should be kept in mind that ibuprofen, as a commonly used antipyretic medication, may rarely cause erythrodermia, which may sometimes be a life-threatening complication. With this report, we wish to increase awareness of clinicians and family members regarding ibuprofen-associated erythrodermia.