A fatal case of erythema necroticans.
Erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) classically presents as tender, erythematous nodules over the face, arms and legs. Severe ENL can become vesicular or bullous and break-down and is termed erythema necroticans (Jopling & McDougall, 1996) and is treated with corticosteroids. The causes of death in a majority of leprosy patients are the same as in the general population, with the exception of renal damage in lepromatous leprosy. There is possible increased mortality from side-effects of antileprosy drugs, steroids, or other drugs used in reactions, from toxaemia in severe reactions, and from asphyxia due to glottic oedema (Jopling & McDougall, 1996). We report here a case of erythema necroticans, the cause of death being septicaemia, secondary to skin ulcers and urinary tract infection, precipitated by corticosteroids.
Davis
S V
SV
Department of Skin and STD, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal 576 119, Karnataka.
Shenoi
S D
SD
Balachandran
C
C
Pai
S B
SB
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002939:Ciprofloxacin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004893:Erythema Nodosum / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology*; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D006801:Humans; D015440:Leprosy, Lepromatous / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012872:Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology*
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D002939:Ciprofloxacin