Hydroxychloroquine : Allergic reaction in the form of erythema multiforme during off label treatment: case report

Abstract

Author Information An event is serious (based on the ICH definition) when the patient outcome is: * death * life-threatening * hospitalisation * disability * congenital anomaly * other medically important event A 55-year-old woman developed allergic reaction in the form of erythema multiforme during off label treatment with hydroxychloroquine for bilateral interstitial pneumonia with positive severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The woman presented with a pruriginous skin rash consisting of erythematous target-like macules with a tendency towards confluence on the trunk and upper limbs, without mucosal involvement from 6 days. It was reported that, 12 days prior to the appearance of skin lesions, she started receiving off label treatment with hydroxychloroquine [dosage and route not stated] for bilateral interstitial pneumonia with positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR. Skin biopsy revealed interface dermatitis and eosinophil infiltrates. These finding and clinical presentations were consistent with a hydroxychloroquine-induced allergic reaction in the form of erythema multiforme. The woman's treatment with hydroxychloroquine was discontinued due to improvement in her respiratory condition [outcome of ADR not stated].