Cutaneous adverse drug reactions in a North Indian Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) are most frequently reported because, in contrast to systemic ADRs, these are generally easily visible and hence, detected by the patient even if he is symptom free. Objectives: To study the spectrum of cutaneous ADRs and the drugs implicated in these reactions. Methods: Data on cutaneous ADRs was collected prospectively over a period of one year among in and out-patients in a North Indian tertiary care hospital, after Dermatological consultation. No rechallenge with the drug was done. Results: Fifty-four cutaneous ADRs were recorded, the common ones being maculopapular rash (29.6%), Stevene Johnson Syndrome (SJS) ± Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) (22.2%) and urticaria (9.3%). Serious/life-threatening reactions were 38.9%. Common drug groups implicated were antimicrobials (33.3%), antiepileptics (16.7%) and NSAIDs (14.8%). Fifty-two cases had probable and two had possible causal relationship with the drug. Majority of the cases (61.1%) were in the age group of 20–50 years with males showing predominance (33:21) over females. H/O drug allergy was seen in 7.4% cases. Conclusion: High frequency of serious cutaneous reactions was recorded in the study. Mortality was prevented by prompt and intensive care of the patients.