Work

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis Associated With Herpes Simplex Virus Reactivation Due to Cold Medicine: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a severe skin inflammation characterized by the sudden onset of numerous sterile, non-follicular pustules on an erythematous and edematous background, usually associated with fever. AGEP is commonly triggered by medications such as antibiotics. However, an association between AGEP and viral infections has also been reported recently. We report a case of a 70-year-old man who developed AGEP following the intake of an over-the-counter cold medicine in the context of herpes simplex virus (HSV) reactivation. Furthermore, we review three cases of AGEP associated with HSV infection. This report suggests HSV reactivation as a potential trigger for AGEP, emphasizing the need for caution when administering drugs to patients with HSV infection.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.80117

Authors: Yoshihito Mima, Tsutomu Ohtsuka, Nobuhito Arakawa, Yoshimasa Nakazato, Yuta Norimatsu

Institutions: Tokyo Metropolitan Police Hospital, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital, International University of Health and Welfare Narita Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Drug-Induced Adverse Reactions

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4408209032

FWCI: 0.983

Cites: 13

Cited by: 2

Related to: 10