Vasculitis refers to the inflammation and damage of blood vessel walls. This presents as erythematous macules or palpable purpura with a predilection for dependent parts, particularly the legs. Vesicles and bullae are less common manifestations. Vasculitis can be idiopathic or associated with infections, systemic diseases, drugs, or vaccines. Vaccine-associated vasculitis has been reported in BCG, influenza, hepatitis, and more recently, COVID-19 vaccines. However, there is limited data on the adverse events associated with rabies vaccine administration.

A 53-year-old Filipino male presented with petechiae evolving into purpura and urticarial targetoid plaques with bullae on the extremities and trunk, after administration of inactivated purified Vero cell rabies vaccine (Verorab, Sanofi Pasteur) due to a Category 3 bite. There were no mucosal lesions. Nikolsky and Asboe-Hansen signs were negative. The patient had no previous reactions to drugs or vaccines.

Histopathology results confirmed the diagnosis of vasculitis. Resolution of skin lesions was achieved with administration of intravenous steroids and oral antihistamines.

Community surveys conducted in three Philippine provinces report the incidence of animal bites at 50 injuries per 1,000 population (5 percent) per year with 45 percent of patients seeking medical treatment at animal bite treatment centers.

There is limited data on adverse events associated with rabies vaccine administration. In general, allergic reactions to vaccines are rare, occurring in approximately 1 in 50,000 to 1 in 1,000,000 doses. These reactions may be due to antigens, residual media, stabilizers, preservatives, or other excipients in the vaccine.

Rash, urticaria, and pruritus have been reported, along with injection site reactions such as erythema, edema, and pain. Fever, malaise, headaches, low mood, purpura, urticaria, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and erythema multiforme may also occur.

Adequate documentation and reporting of adverse reactions due to vaccines contributes to long-term safety studies and establishing treatment guidelines.

Human ; Male ; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old ; Hypersensitivity ; Rabies Vaccines ; Vasculitis

INTRODUCTION

Oral isothretinoin is the treatment of choice in moderate to severe acne vulgaris. The most common adverse effect is mild mucocutaneous symptoms and the most seious risk is related to teratogenecity. Hyperuricemia and gouty arthritis are rarely associated with isotretinoin therapy.

CASE REPORT

We report a case of a 26-year-old female patient with no known comorbidities who was started on isotretinoin therapy for acne vulgaris. The patient presented with baseline hyperuricemia with no joint pains or swelling. Two and a half weeks later after initiation of isotretinoin therapy, the patient developed pain and swelling on the left wrist, hence was started on urate-lowering medications and maintained on isotretinoin tharapy. The patient had no recurrence of joint pains and remains symptom-free for six months later.

Human ; Female ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; Acne Vulgaris ; Arthritis, Gouty ; Hyperuricemia ; Isotretinoin ; Retinoids