ISSN:
1600-0560
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
The authors report the occurrence of lichenoid and/or subacute lupus erythematosus-like eruptions in a group of patients receiving agents with antihistaminic properties. In 1 of the patients the eruption clinically resembled lichen planus, while in 5 patients the eruption resembled subacute cutaneous lupus crythematosus (SCLE). At a light microscopic level all cases showed a lichenoid dermatitis and in 4 cases the lesions were interpreted as representing subacute lupus-like eruptions by virtue of the presence of alternating cell poor and lichenoid interface dermatitis, suprabasilar lymphocytosis around degenerating keratinocytes, and dermal mucinosis. Despite the resemblance at a clinical and light microscopic level to SCLE, anti-Ro seropositivity could not be established in any of the cases. One case, however, did demonstrate antihistone antibodies in concert with a high antinuclear antibody titer. A causal association was implicated by virtue of lesional resolution following drug withdrawal. The association of cutaneous eruptions resembling SCLE with antihistamine intake is seemingly a novel one. The possible pathogenetic basis of the eruptions is discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0560.1999.tb01809.x