Allopurinol-Induced Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS)

Abstract

Allopurinol is a commonly used medication that lowers uric acid production which is essential for gout treatment and prevention. Although many patients tolerate allopurinol therapy without severe complications; Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are life-threatening delayed hypersensitivity reactions that have been reported especially among Asian and African American patients. We describe a case of allopurinol-induced SJS in a 95-year-old Asian female. The patient started allopurinol 13 days prior to presenting to the emergency room (ER). On day 10 of therapy, the patient developed a diffuse erythematous desquamating rash which prompted her to visit the ER after 3 days from the rash onset. This case report describes a rare fatal hypersensitivity reaction that requires rapid identification and treatment in a multi-disciplinary setting.