Bullous pemphigoid associated with the use of DPP4 inhibitors: A case series

Abstract

Dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are one of the most commonly used anti-diabetic drugs because of their established safety and efficacy. Bullous pemphigoid which is an autoimmune blister skin disorder associated with DPP-4 inhibitors is a recognized adverse drug reaction (ADR) reported in some Southeast Asian Nations but has not been reported earlier from India. It is an uncommon, serious treatment with emergent adverse effects. Here, we report a series of five cases of DPP-4 inhibitor Linagliptin-induced bullous pemphigoid reaction in Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. We are reporting five cases that showed various clinical manifestations in terms of gender (males 4), duration of diabetes (average 7.2 years), glycemic control (average HbA1C 6.7%), and latency period (average 3.6 weeks) for development of the ADR. Quality of life and treatment satisfaction were severely impacted by this ADR. Withdrawal of Linagliptin, use of topical and oral steroids and immunosuppressant like azathioprine were prescribed and effective for improving the lesions of all the cases. As per the World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Center scale, causality was established as “probable” for all the cases. This case series serves to bring to the notice of prescribers regarding this important cutaneous ADR with the use of Linagliptin. This case intends to improve awareness among clinicians regarding the possibility of this cutaneous ADR among diabetic patients to facilitate early diagnosis and intervention.