The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.

SMJ // Article

Case Report

Erythema Multiforme Associated with Candesartan Cilexetil

Authors: A. Ahsan Ejaz, MD, John S. Walsh, MD, Andrew Wasiluk, MD

Abstract

Candesartan cilexetil is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist that is widely used in the treatment of hypertension. It is generally well tolerated and rarely has adverse effects. We report the case of a 50-year-old man with a 3-year history of hypertension that was difficult to manage because of intolerance to multiple medications. Treatment with candesartan cilexetil was initiated, and blood pressure control improved markedly. Five weeks later, the patient presented with a 2 × 3-cm ulcerative plaque covered with a fibrinous exudate on the right upper lip. Findings from a biopsy of the upper lip were diagnostic for erythema multiforme. Treatment with candesartan cilexetil was discontinued, and the lesions resolved completely within a few weeks. To our knowledge, this is the first report of erythema multiforme induced by the antihypertensive medication candesartan cilexetil.

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