Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP) (pronunciation: /əˈkjuːt ˌdʒɛnərəˈlaɪzd ɪkˈsænθɪmətəs pʌsˈtjuːləsɪs/) is a rare skin reaction most commonly triggered by medications.

Etymology

The term is derived from the Greek words "akutus" meaning sharp or severe, "genos" meaning race or kind, "exanthema" meaning a rash or eruption, and "pustulosis" meaning a condition characterized by pustules.

Definition

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP) is a severe, usually self-limiting cutaneous reaction pattern characterized by the rapid onset of widespread sterile, non-follicular, pinpoint pustules arising on an erythematous base.

Causes

The most common cause of AGEP is drug reactions, especially to antibiotics such as penicillin and macrolides. Other triggers can include viral infections and mercury hypersensitivity.

Symptoms

Symptoms of AGEP include a high fever and a rash with small pustules spread widely over the body. The rash usually appears quickly, often within 2 days of taking the medication that causes the reaction.

Treatment

Treatment involves discontinuing the medication that caused the reaction and managing symptoms. Topical corticosteroids may be used to help reduce inflammation and itching.

Related Terms

• Pustule
• Erythema
• Corticosteroids
• Antibiotics
• Drug reaction
• Penicillin
• Macrolides

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis
• Wikipedia's article - Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis

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