Case Reports
8 May 2025
Early Access
https://doi.org/10.4081/dr.2025.10217

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis induced by iodinated contrast media: a case report

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Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, contrast media, iodinated contrast, drug reaction, pustular eruption
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Authors

Maisa Alfalah
Dermatology Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Yara Alotaibi
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4785-8269
Imam Mohammed bin Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Atheer Alotaibi
dr.atheertu@gmail.com
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8872-4110
College of Medicine, Almaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Raghad Alharthi
Dermatology Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare pustular eruption commonly triggered by drugs. It’s characterized by acute onset of pustules on erythematous-edematous skin and often presents with fever. This report describes AGEP following exposure to iodinated contrast media (ICM), specifically iobitridol, in a 68-year-old male with multiple comorbidities. The patient developed characteristic erythematous patches with pustules on the body after initial CT imaging with ICM for a prostate abscess. Histological findings and recurrence following re-exposure confirmed AGEP, which was attributed to ICM. This case emphasizes the need for awareness of ICM as a potential trigger for AGEP. Management included topical steroids and antihistamines, resulting in a rapid recovery.

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Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis induced by iodinated contrast media: a case report. (2025). Dermatology Reports. https://doi.org/10.4081/dr.2025.10217
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