Drug-induced, photosensitive, erythema multiforme-like eruption: possible role for cell adhesion molecules in a flare induced by Rhus dermatitis.

Abstract

Drug-induced, photosensitive erythema multiforme has not been reported, although drugs and sunlight are listed among precipitating factors in erythema multiforme. We describe a case of a drug-induced erythema multiforme-like eruption in a photodistribution that was reproduced by clinical challenge with the drug and sunlight. On contact with Rhus verniciflua, the Japanese lacquer tree, the patient had a flare of the eruption, which was limited to the areas previously exposed to sun. Immunohistochemical studies suggested that the keratinocytes in the skin that retain teh photoactivated substances may facilitate epidermal invasion of lymphocytes by persistent expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1.