Tag: Drug hypersensitivity

According to a systematic review, antibiotics are associated with over one-quarter of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) cases worldwide, with sulfonamides remaining the most significant contributor. However, several other classes of medication carry a high risk for this severe, life-threatening skin reaction, particularly during the first few months of treatment.

Hypersensitivity reactions to macrolide antibiotics like clarithromycin occur in approximately 0.4% to 3% of patients [1.6.3]. While generally well-tolerated, a key question for many is: **can clarithromycin cause skin rash**? The answer is yes, with reactions ranging from mild to life-threatening.

While infections are a common cause of swollen lymph nodes, an estimated 2-10% of adverse drug reactions involve the lymphatic system. This specific reaction is known as drug-induced lymphadenopathy, and several types of medications cause lymph nodes to swell as an uncommon but possible side effect.

Over the past few years, the medical community has shifted away from the outdated and potentially insensitive term 'red man syndrome'. The syndrome is now more accurately and respectfully referred to as vancomycin infusion reaction (VIR) or vancomycin flushing syndrome (VFS). This change reflects a better understanding of the condition and a move toward more inclusive medical language.

While infections like the herpes simplex virus are the most common cause overall, over 50% of severe erythema multiforme (EM major) cases are attributed to medication use. This article aims to clarify which drug is most likely to be causing erythema multiforme, focusing on the most commonly reported pharmacologic triggers.