Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis: A Painful and Pruritic Presentation of Pustulosis Following Pharmacotherapy for Pharyngeal Phlegmon

Cureus. 2022 Apr 12;14(4):e24072. doi: 10.7759/cureus.24072. eCollection 2022 Apr.

Abstract

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is primarily a drug-induced skin eruption, which typically presents within two days of starting an offending medication; it is often self-limiting with spontaneous resolution within two weeks upon medication cessation. We report the case of a patient who presented with generalized desquamation, characteristic pustules, and several morbilliform rashes on the body surface in association with recent amoxicillin-clavulanic acid exposure. This was associated with significant pruritus, which was the associated chief complaint. A multimodal approach to symptomatic management with topical corticosteroids, barrier ointments, oral antihistamines, and analgesics was required, in addition to the cessation of the offending medication.

Keywords: acute illness; atypical rash; cutaneous drug eruption; diffuse rash; drug rash; fever with rash; palm and sole rash; skin eruption; uncommon rash; acute medical conditions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports