olanzapine and Lupus-Erythematosus--Cutaneous

Rowell's syndrome (RS) is a rare type of coexistence of one of the lupus erythematosus (LE) types (systemic, subacute cutaneous or discoid) and erythema multiforme (EM) (including toxic epidermal necrolysis). We present the case of a 51-year-old patient with a diagnosis of RS, most probably caused by drugs given as psychiatric treatment. After cessation of sodium valproate and initiation of treatment with prednisolone, a spectacular clinical remission was achieved. The likely role of psychiatric drugs, namely sodium valproate and sertraline, as triggering factors, is discussed.

Topics: Antipsychotic Agents; Benzodiazepines; Depressive Disorder; Drug Therapy, Combination; Erythema Multiforme; Female; Humans; Lupus Erythematosus, Cutaneous; Middle Aged; Olanzapine; Pericarditis; Sertraline; Syndrome; Treatment Outcome; Valproic Acid