Levamisole induced toxic epidermal necrolysis: A case report

Abstract

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are life-threatening immune-mediated hypersensitivity reactions. Various drugs, such as Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), allopurinol, anticonvulsants and antibiotics, have been implicated as triggering agent of SJS/TEN. Levamisole is frequently used as an antihelminthic and as an immunomodulator in cases of nephrotic syndrome. However, levamisole has not been reported as a trigger for SJS/TEN. The current case describes levamisole-induced TEN in a 15-year-old male who presented to emergency with erythematous lesions, blistering and denudation of skin involving up to 30% of body surface area. Algorithm of drug causality for epidermal necrolysis scoring was applied for causality assessment and a relationship was found to be “possible”. Immediate withdrawal of levamisole along with a short course of corticosteroids and cyclosporine led to improvement in signs and symptoms. Clinicians should be aware of the possible association of levamisole and SJS/TEN.