Azathioprine hypersensitivity syndrome

Ugeskr Laeger. 2022 Nov 14;184(46):V06220375.
[Article in Danish]

Abstract

In this case report, a 57-year-old male presented with circulatory collapse, systemic inflammation and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis a week after initiation of azathioprine treatment (AZA). He was presumed to have sepsis, AZA was paused, and he was treated with antibiotics. Re-initiation of AZA post recovery caused a relapse of symptoms and anuric renal failure within three hours. He was diagnosed with the rare and potentially fatal azathioprine hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS), a type-IV hypersensitivity reaction. A skin biopsy can support diagnosis, and upon suspicion of AHS, AZA should be stopped, and re-exposure avoided.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects
  • Azathioprine* / adverse effects
  • Biopsy
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity, Delayed*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Syndrome

Substances

  • Azathioprine
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents