Epidemiology of severe drug hypersensitivity
Epidemiological studies of severe drug hypersensitivities
are important to understanding the morbidity and
mortality of this heterogeneous group of disorders. These
insights also allow greater identification of at-risk patient
groups. However, epidemiological studies of drug hypersensitivity
reactions are challenging due to the variable
diagnostic criteria applied and incomplete data sets
studied. We review the epidemiology of severe drug hypersensitivity
reactions with a particular focus on severe
cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs). SCAR diseases
include: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal
necrolysis, drug rash eosinophilia and systemic symptoms,
serum-sickness–like reaction and acute generalized
exanthematous pustulosis.
Fever and Erythema in the Emergency Room
Erythema (rash) and fever represents one of the most challenging cases for a dermatologist. Not only is the differential diagnosis broad, but it also includes life-threatening diseases that require quick and decisive action on the part of the physician.
The logistics of an inpatient dermatology service
Among the more than 3,000 skin conditions that dermatologists manage, there are a number of severe, acute cutaneous diagnoses which either warrant hospitalization on their own or can arise in the inpatient setting and demand skilled inpatient dermatological consultation.
Update on Syndromes With Cutaneous Manifestations and New Diagnoses in Dermatology
We have highlighted new information regarding syndromes with cutaneous manifestations and present several newly described dermatologic diagnoses.
Approach to the Acute, Generalized, Blistering Patient
Bullous skin diseases are characterized by the presence of blisters and/or erosions of the skin and mucous membranes.
The variety of causes of generalized blistering includes autoimmune, drug-induced, neoplastic, and infectious etiologies.