A 49-year old woman was hospitalized for generalized rash and pruritus following the administration of ophthalmic drops containing ciprofloxacin to treat conjunctivitis. Physical examination demonstrated diffuse erythematous papules and plaques with a targetoid appearance, injected sclera, and multiple erosions in the oropharynx. Skin biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of erythema multiforme major. The eye drops were discontinued and supportive treatment was initiated; the patient recovered in four weeks and was discharged from the hospital. Although cases such as this are rare, it is important that physicians take a thorough medication history from all patients with suspected erythema multiforme, including topical and ophthalmic medications. Prompt discontinuation of the offending agent can hasten patient recovery and optimize outcomes.
Nivolumab, a relatively novel immune checkpoint inhibitor with FDA approval in 2014, is gaining greater utilization due to its efficacy in treating metastatic melanoma. Many of the cutaneous immune-related adverse events (irAEs) being catalogued do not necessitate discontinuation of immunotherapy and are managed with supportive therapy. We present a case of erythema multiforme major secondary to nivolumab requiring hospitalization and discontinuation of treatment. This is only the second reported case of nivolumab-induced erythema multiforme in the literature we are aware of, and emphasizes the importance of oncologists working in conjunction with dermatologists for prompt diagnosis and management.
Cookie SettingseScholarship uses cookies to ensure you have the best experience on our website. You can manage which cookies you want us to use.Our Privacy Statement includes more details on the cookies we use and how we protect your privacy.