Pemphigus vulgaris induced by D-penicillamine therapy in a patient with systemic sclerosis

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2000 Feb;42(2 Pt 1):297-9. doi: 10.1016/S0190-9622(00)90146-4.

Abstract

D: -Penicillamine-induced pemphigus occurs infrequently, typically in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We describe a patient with systemic sclerosis who experienced this complication 3 months after starting D -penicillamine therapy. Nikolsky's sign, histopathologic findings, and direct immunofluorescence all confirmed the diagnosis. Termination of disease progression required intravenous pulse glucocorticoids, azathioprine, and 3 courses of plasmapheresis. The presentation, treatment, and etiology of D -penicillamine-induced pemphigus are reviewed, and the incidence of this complication in scleroderma patients is examined.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antirheumatic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pemphigus / chemically induced*
  • Pemphigus / pathology
  • Penicillamine / adverse effects*
  • Scleroderma, Systemic / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Penicillamine