Korean J Dermatol.  2018 Jun;56(5):314-321.

Clinical Analysis of Drug Eruptions among Inpatients Seeking a Consultation with the Department of Dermatology

• Lee MY
• Byun JY
• Choi HY
• Choi YW

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Drug eruptions are common in hospitalized patients. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential but often difficult.
OBJECTIVE
This study defined the clinical features and causative drugs among inpatients presenting with drug eruptions.
METHODS
We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and laboratory data of inpatients who sought consultations with the Dermatology Department for a diagnosis of drug eruptions.
RESULTS
A total of 228 patients were diagnosed with drug eruptions, and this study included 139 patients. The highest incidence of drug eruptions was observed in patients in their 50s (22.3%). The most common latent period was up to 1 week (57.6%). The most common drug eruptions were exanthematous eruptions (59.7%), acneiform eruptions (10.8%), and urticaria (9.3%). The most common causative drugs were antibiotics (53.2%), followed by anticancer drugs (19.4%), and contrast media (6.5%). Laboratory abnormalities included eosinophilia (15.8%), abnormal liver function tests (7.9%), leukopenia (4.3%), an elevated serum creatinine level (2.2%), and leukocytosis (0.7%).
CONCLUSION
In descending order, the most frequent drug eruptions were exanthematous eruptions, acneiform eruptions, and urticaria, and the most common causative drugs were antibiotics, anticancer agents, and contrast media. Prompt diagnosis and discontinuation of the causative drug are important in this context. Clinicians should be aware of cutaneous adverse drug reactions.

Keyword

Cutaneous adverse drug reaction; Dermatological consultation; Drug eruption; Drug rash

MeSH Terms

Acneiform Eruptions
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Antineoplastic Agents
Contrast Media
Creatinine
Dermatology*
Diagnosis
Drug Eruptions*
Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Eosinophilia
Humans
Incidence
Inpatients*
Leukocytosis
Leukopenia
Liver Function Tests
Referral and Consultation
Retrospective Studies
Urticaria
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Antineoplastic Agents
Contrast Media
Creatinine