Korean J Dermatol.  1998 Jun;36(3):511-514.

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis Probably Induced by Ampicillin

• Hwang JY
• Kim MY
• Lee SY
• Lee JS
• Chung H
• Whang KW

Abstract

Generalized pustular skin eruptions as a form of drug eruption is a rare entity. Recently this unique pustular dermatosis has been termed as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. We report on a 19-year-old man with acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis probably induced by ampicillin. The patient presented with erythematous and pinhead-sized subcorneal pustules after taking ampicillin for abdomimal pain. The patient complained of high fever and malaise. On further review of his history, generalized skin eruptions had been noted on at least three other occasions. Each episode occured following oral administration of antibiotics. A histological examination of a skin biposy specimen showed a subcorneal pustules with a few neutrophils, dermal edema and necrotic keratinocytes. After discontinuation of ampicillin, the eruption cleared within 4 days.

MeSH Terms

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis*
Administration, Oral
Ampicillin*
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Drug Eruptions
Edema
Fever
Humans
Keratinocytes
Neutrophils
Skin
Skin Diseases
Young Adult
Ampicillin
Anti-Bacterial Agents