Abstract
A desquamating rash may pose a true clinical challenge. Therefore, the history and clinical course are crucial to making an accurate diagnosis. We present the clinical case of a 17-year-old boy submitted to a pilonidalis sinus excision, who presented to the emergency department with erythema and desquamation of lips, a scarlatiniform rash, an extensive desquamation of the hands and feet, and an infection of the surgical site. Given the suspicion of a staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome intravenous antibiotics were immediately started. During day six of admission, a sudden itching erythematous and desquamative rash appeared on the face and body, which worsened after the administration of cefuroxime. Therefore, that antibiotic was stopped and subsequently clinical improvement was observed. A skin biopsy revealed toxiderma. A positive oral provocation test for cefuroxime confirmed the cause of toxiderma. This case leads to discussion about the importance of the clinical course to make the correct diagnosis.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 216-219 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Portuguese Journal of Pediatrics |
Volume | 52 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 16 Jul 2021 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Adolescent
- Cefuroxime/adverse reactions
- Drug hypersensitivity
- Exanthema/etiology
- Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome/complications
- Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome/diagnosis
- Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome/drug therapy