Vulval fixed drug eruption due to paracetamol.
Paracetamol is a readily available non-prescription analgesic. Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a well-reported side effect of paracetamol, usually the classic, pigmenting type. In women, it may present as a chronic, erosive vulvitis. We describe a case of FDE due to paracetamol presenting as a chronic erosive vulvitis in an older woman taking multiple medications. Diagnosis was delayed because paracetamol is available without prescription, taken intermittently and may be omitted from the clinical history. Cessation of paracetamol led to prompt resolution of symptoms. Consideration should be given to paracetamol as a cause of FDE presenting as a chronic erosive vulvitis.
Drummond
Catherine
C
Department of Dermatology, The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia. cjdrummond@netspeed.com.au
Fischer
Gayle
G
D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000009:adverse effects*; D018712:Analgesics, Non-Narcotic / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011349:Proctitis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D011537:Pruritus / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis; D012651:Self Medication; D014847:Vulvitis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis
D018712:Analgesics, Non-Narcotic; D000082:Acetaminophen