A striking presentation of pustular Sweet syndrome induced by trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

Australas J Dermatol. 2022 Nov;63(4):e356-e359. doi: 10.1111/ajd.13897. Epub 2022 Jul 22.

Abstract

We describe a strikingly robust presentation of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)-induced pustular Sweet syndrome and discuss how to distinguish it from iododerma and other neutrophil-rich conditions. A review of the literature indicates that TMP-SMX-induced Sweet syndrome (SS) may have higher rates of neutrophilia and greater ocular, mucosal, and musculoskeletal involvement compared to SS from other drugs. Recognizing these features and identifying the offending agent are critical for correctly diagnosing TMP-SMX-induced SS in a timely manner.

Keywords: Sweet syndrome; drug eruptions; drug hypersensitivity; neutrophils; potassium iodide; trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole drug combination.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Sweet Syndrome* / chemically induced
  • Sweet Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination* / adverse effects

Substances

  • Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination