Propylthiouracil-induced cutaneous vasculitis. Case presentation and review of the literature.

Publication/Presentation Date

2-1-1980

Abstract

A patient had cutaneous vasculitis, leukopenia, and splenomegaly caused by the antithyroid drug, propylthiouracil. Histopathologic changes of acute vasculitis of the superficial and deep dermal blood vessels accompanied by fibrin thrombi formation were found in biopsy specimens of the cutaneous lesions. Direct immunofluorescence studies demonstrated IgM and C3 of the vessel walls suggesting immune complex deposition. The literature disclosed five cases with similar features associated with propylthiouracil therapy. Characteristic cutaneous findings include a recurrent, self-limited, symmetrical purpuric eruption that can involve the face or earlobes. Clinicians should recognize these changes as a cutaneous sign of a vasculitis associated with propylthiouracil therapy.

Volume

243

Issue

5

First Page

458

Last Page

461

ISSN

0098-7484

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

6892530

Department(s)

Department of Medicine

Document Type

Article

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