Chlorpromazine-induced Exfoliative Photoallergic Reaction
- Author:
Young Hoon KIM
1
;
Gwang Bog LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Psychiatry, Dadae Jayeon Hospital, Busan, Korea
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:
Journal of the Korean Society of Biological Therapies in Psychiatry
2020;26(3):269-273
- CountryRepublic of Korea
-
Abstract:
Despite the availability of second-generation antipsychotic drugs, chlorpromazine is still commonly used in Korea and many other countries due to its cost effectiveness, particularly for patients experiencing psychomotor excitement. Adverse effects of chlorpromazine include photosensitivity and phototoxic and photoallergic skin reactions. We present a case of severe photoallergic skin reactions to chlorpromazine that developed 3 days after use of the drug. The skin lesions resolved completely within one week after stopping the drug. A previous history of exposure to chlorpromazine was unknown and the patient had never previously experienced any form of drug-induced photosensitivity. This case highlights the need for awareness of the cutaneous adverse effects of chlorpromazine and the importance of educating patients.
