Ibuprofen Unveiled: A Middle-Aged Odyssey through Stevens-Johnson SyndromeAhmed Qasim Mohammed Alhatemi1, Hashim Talib Hashim2, Mohammed Abdul Rahman 3, Rand K Abdulhussain 4. Ali Talib Hashim5.Al Nasiriyah Teaching Hospital, Thi Qar, [email protected] Al Anbiyaa university, Karbala, [email protected] Nasiriyah Teaching Hospital, Thi Qar, [email protected] of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, [email protected] University of medical sciences, Gorgan, [email protected]*Corresponding Author: Ali Talib Hashim, Golestan University of medical sciences, Gorgan,[email protected] statement: Written informed consent was obtained from the patient to publish this report in accordance with the journal’s patient consent policyWe declare that we have no conflict of interestNo source of funding receiveData availability statement The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.Clinical key messageIbuprofen, a common NSAID, may unravel unexpected dangers like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. This case underscores the urgency of recognizing adverse drug reactions, urging vigilance in both healthcare and public spheres for safer medication practices.Introduction:Ibuprofen, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has long been a stalwart in the realm of pain relief and inflammation management. However, behind its commonplace presence in medicine cabinets, there lies a potential peril that, though rare, demands our attention and understanding. This narrative unfolds as a middle-aged individual embarks on an unexpected journey through the harrowing landscape of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) – a severe and, at times, life-threatening skin disorder (1,2). As the story begins, it beckons us to consider the seemingly innocuous act of reaching for an over-the-counter pain reliever. In this case, ibuprofen serves as the unwitting protagonist, a common choice for those grappling with the discomforts of everyday ailments (3). The unsuspecting middle-aged protagonist, seeking respite from a routine headache or muscular ache, unwittingly triggers a chain of events that will unfold into a rare and alarming medical ordeal (4). Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, characterized by the abrupt onset of a painful rash and blistering, often involves the mucous membranes, including the eyes, nose, and mouth. It can be triggered by various medications, and ibuprofen, despite its ubiquity and perceived safety, is not exempt from this list (5). The narrative explores the unfolding symptoms, the perplexing escalation from mild discomfort to severe skin involvement, and the subsequent medical odyssey that ensues (5). This exploration delves into the broader implications of drug safety, shedding light on the delicate balance between the benefits and risks of widely used medications. It underscores the importance of vigilance, both on the part of healthcare providers and the public, in recognizing potential adverse reactions (6). Through this journey, we navigate the intricacies of drug-induced skin disorders and the critical role of prompt medical intervention in steering the narrative towards recovery (7). ”Ibuprofen Unveiled” invites readers to contemplate the uncharted territories that can emerge from seemingly routine decisions and prompts a reconsideration of our relationship with common medications that weave seamlessly into the fabric of our daily lives.KeywordsAcute medicine, Dermatology, Immunology, Critical care medicine, pharmacology and pharmacy.Case presentationA middle-aged female presented to the emergency room with a sudden onset of severe facial swelling, red painful eyes with discharge, crusting and erosion of lips, and a generalized non-blanching purpuric rash, predominantly on the chest, upper, and lower limbs. Upon thorough history-taking, it was revealed that she had taken ibuprofen for flu-like symptoms three days prior. She had no past medical history of chronic diseases and was not taking any medications. She is a non-smoker and non-drinker. During examination, the patient, an average-built female, appeared in distress but was fully conscious, oriented to time, place, and person. Cardiac, respiratory, and neurological examinations were unremarkable. Her vital signs were as follows: BP 133/88 mmHg, RR 22, SpO2 95%, HR 88 bpm, and a temperature of 38.4°C. Head, neck, and eye examination revealed conjunctivitis with discharge, coalescing deep red erythematous targeted macules with central blister formation on the face, and swelling, erosion, and yellowish discharge of the lips (chelitis) as depicted in figure 1.
