Pediatric toxic epidermal necrolysis treated successfully with infliximab

Pediatr Dermatol. 2019 May;36(3):342-345. doi: 10.1111/pde.13778. Epub 2019 Mar 4.

Abstract

Successful management of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) with tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors has been described in adults. We present a case of a 7-year-old boy with infection-associated TEN, diagnosed by typical clinical and histopathological features, most likely caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Treatment with a single dose of infliximab 5 mg/kg intravenously on day 5 after the onset of symptoms was followed by cessation of all blister formation over 3 days and complete resolution within a week. Sequelae were mild, consisting of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and dry eyes.

Keywords: Stevens-Johnson syndrome; infliximab; mycoplasma pneumoniae; toxic epidermal necrolysis; toxic epidermal necrolysis, alpha inhibitor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Infliximab / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae / isolation & purification
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / microbiology
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / pathology

Substances

  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Infliximab