Exanthematous (maculopapular) drug eruption
INTRODUCTION
Exanthematous (maculopapular) drug eruption, also called morbilliform (measles-like) drug-induced exanthem, is the most common drug hypersensitivity reaction [1,2]. It is characterized by a disseminated, and occasionally generalized, symmetric eruption of erythematous macules and/or papules (picture 1A-B) that occur approximately one to two weeks after initiating treatment with the causative drug or, in previously sensitized individuals, as early as 6 to 12 hours and up to three days after initiating treatment with the causative drug. The exanthematous drug eruption should be differentiated from more severe forms of drug hypersensitivity, where the mucous membranes (oral, conjunctival, nasal, anogenital) and/or internal organs may be involved [3,4]. (See "Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis" and "Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)".)This topic will focus on the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of exanthematous drug eruptions. Drug hypersensitivity in general, severe cutaneous drug reactions, cutaneous reactions to anticancer agents, and other types of cutaneous adverse drug reactions are discussed separately.
●Drug hypersensitivity
•(See "Drug hypersensitivity: Classification and clinical features".)
•(See "An approach to the patient with drug allergy".)
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