Phenytoin/albendazole induced exanthematous eruptions: a case report

Abstract

Exanthematous drug eruptions, often called “drug rashes” or “maculopapular eruptions” by non-dermatologists are the most common form of cutaneous drug eruption. Cutaneous reactions are among the most common adverse effects of drugs, including penicillins, cephalosporins, sulfonamides, and allopurinol (with an incidence of up to 50 cases per 1000 new users), and particularly the aromatic amine anti-seizure medications, including carbamazepine, phenytoin, and lamotrigine (with an incidence of up to 100 cases per 1000 new users). Phenytoin is a hydantoin derivative anticonvulsant drug used primarily in the management of complex partial seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Albendazole is a benzimidazole medication used for the treatment of a variety of parasitic worm infestations. Carbamazepine and phenytoin are among the most common causes of antiepileptic drug-related cutaneous adverse reactions. Manifestations range from a mild erythematous maculopapular rash to life-threatening Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Albendazole induced rashes and urticaria have been reported in less than 1% of the patients. Here we present the case of a 12-year-old male patient who came to the dermatology outpatient department with complaints of itching and maculopapular eruptions all over the body. The patient gave a history of taking tablet phenytoin and tablet albendazole for neurocysticercosis since 1-week. There was no fever or any other systemic manifestations. There was no history of any other drug intake. A diagnosis of phenytoin/albendazole induced exanthematous eruptions was made. Both the medications were discontinued, and the patient was advised to take syrup sodium valproate 200 mg BD. For the rashes and itching, the patient was advised to take tablet hydroxyzine HCl 10 mg OD, tablet prednisolone and tablet levocetirizine for 5 days. Improvement was seen and the itching reduced. Rechallenge was not done. In this event, casualty assessment using Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale revealed that phenytoin/albendazole were probable causes for the adverse drug reaction.