Pemphigus-like eruption as a complication of molluscum contagiosum treatment with imiquimod in a 5-year-old girl

Abstract

Pemphigus and pemphigus-like reactions can be triggered by a variety of medications including topical therapies, such as imiquimod. While the association between imiquimod and pemphigus-like reactions has been reported in adults, this is the first report of a generalized reaction beyond the site of imiquimod application in a child. The mechanism by which this occurs may be through a unique pathway, separate from the classic antibody-mediated pathway. Our patient had a full recovery without recurrence after cessation of the inciting drug.