# Cefepime-Induced Generalized Fixed Drug Eruption With Morbilliform Rash

**Authors:** Grayson P Clark, Haley M Caldwell, Christopher A Coop, Brittanie I Neaves, Peter W Barnes

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53011 · 2024-01-26

## TL;DR

A patient developed a widespread skin reaction from cefepime, which improved after stopping the drug and using antihistamines and steroids.

## Contribution

This case highlights cefepime as a rare cause of generalized fixed drug eruption.

## Key findings

- Cefepime can cause generalized fixed drug eruption with morbilliform rash.
- Symptoms resolved after discontinuing cefepime and using antihistamines and topical steroids.

## Abstract

Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a cutaneous reaction that characteristically recurs in the same locations upon re-exposure to the offending drug(s). The typical presentation of FDEs is single or multiple violaceous plaques with hyperpigmentation due to inflammation. The causative agents for FDEs include antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, barbiturates, and anticonvulsants. We present an interesting case of a generalized fixed drug eruption secondary to cefepime that resolved with the cessation of the offending drug and the institution of antihistamines and topical steroids.

## Linked entities

- **Chemicals:** cefepime (PubChem CID 5479537)
- **Diseases:** fixed drug eruption (MONDO:0017395)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** hyperpigmentation (MESH:D017495), inflammation (MESH:D007249), Morbilliform Rash (MESH:D005076), FDE (MESH:D003875)
- **Chemicals:** acetaminophen (MESH:D000082), barbiturates (MESH:D001463), Cefepime (MESH:D000077723), steroids (MESH:D013256)

## Figures

4 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC10894754/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC10894754