Cutaneous drug reactions in children: an update

Paediatr Drugs. 2013 Dec;15(6):493-503. doi: 10.1007/s40272-013-0039-z.

Abstract

Cutaneous drug reactions account for a large proportion of adverse drug reactions. Cutaneous drug reactions can be very challenging to diagnose. They can mimic many other skin diseases; this is especially evident during childhood, when viral exanthems are commonplace. Also, if a patient is taking numerous medications, establishing causality to a specific drug can be multifaceted and difficult. The purpose of this review is to highlight an approach to the diagnosis of a suspected cutaneous drug reaction in a child. We have classified different types of drug eruptions by morphology: exanthematous, urticarial, pustular, and bullous. Within each of these groups we have divided them into simple, benign, or non-febrile and complex or febrile reactions. We also include a miscellaneous group to ensure a methodical review.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drug Eruptions / diagnosis*
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology
  • Drug Eruptions / pathology
  • Humans
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / diagnosis
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / etiology
  • Urticaria / etiology