Clinical features: Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a reaction pattern mostly caused by drugs. It is characterized by the rapid occurrence of dozens to thousands pinhead-sized, non-follicular, sterile pustules on a slightly edematous erythematous base, commonly with accentuation in the major flexures and usually accompanied by a facial edema, fever and leukocytosis. Histology reveals spongiform subcorneal and/or intraepidermal pustules, an inflammatory infiltrate consisting of neutrophils and often eosinophils and frequently a marked edema of the papillary dermis.
Triggers: Even if in single case reports a large number of drugs has been described as triggers for AGEP, larger studies have revealed a list with an elevated risk to cause the reaction which includes antibacterial agents like ampicillin/amoxicillin, quinolones, pristinamycin, anti-infective sulfonamides, the antimycotic drug terbinafine, (hydroxy)chloroquine, and diltiazem. In some cases infections have been reported as triggers.
Clinical course, prognosis and treatment: AGEP is an acute and--especially in patients with concomitant diseases--sometimes severe reaction. Withdrawal of the causative agent usually leads to a rapid and complete resolution--even without further specific therapy.