First reported case of tenofovir-induced photoallergic reaction

Abstract

A 50-year-old man, a known case of human immunodeficiency virus infection for the past 1 year, was on antiretroviral therapy in the form of stavudine, lamivudine, and nevirapine. Three days after replacing stavudine with tenofovir, he developed redness on the face and neck and within 48 h the rash became generalized. Dermatological examination revealed involvement of photoexposed areas of the face in the form of erythema and ill-defined hyperpigmented plaques, with mild periorbital edema. There was specific involvement of V and nape of the neck. Extensive erythema and scaling were also present on buttocks, thighs, and upper third of legs. A diagnosis of photoallergic dermatitis to tenofovir was considered and confirmed by histopathology and photopatch test. He responded well to the stoppage of the drug and oral corticosteroids. This is the first report of a photoallergic reaction to tenofovir in the literature.

Keywords: Drug reaction; antiretroviral therapy; photoallergic reaction; tenofovir.

Figure 1

Skin lesions of photoallergic drug reaction. (a) Hyperpigmentation and erythema over photoexposed parts of face and V of the neck with periorbital edema. (b) Similar lesions on nape of the neck with sharp cut-off margins

Figure 2

Photoallergic drug reaction becoming generalized. (a) Extension on to upper limbs and folds of axilla. (b) Extensive erythema and scaling on buttocks and lower limbs