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Levofloxacin-Induced Fuchs Syndrome: A Rare Atypical Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Variant With a Comprehensive Literature Review

Abuhammad A, Ayyad M, Albandak M, Natsheh M, Attawna SIY

Case reports in medicine, 2025

2 citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Fuchs syndrome, also known as atypical Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), is a rare variant of SJS that primarily affects the mucosae of the mouth, eyes, and genitalia with minimal to no skin involvement. This case is notable due to the absence of skin manifestations and the critical need for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management, especially following drug administration.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a 22-year-old male patient who presented with severe oral ulcers, causing difficulty in talking and swallowing. The patient was recently treated for an upper respiratory tract infection with levofloxacin. Shortly thereafter, he developed oral and genital ulcers, as well as conjunctivitis. Upon admission, various differential diagnoses including autoimmune and infectious were considered but subsequently ruled out. As symptoms worsened, a biopsy of the affected mucosa was performed and confirmed the diagnosis of SJS. The patient was subsequently treated with corticosteroids resulting in rapid improvement of his symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the importance of considering Fuchs syndrome as a potential cause of mucositis following drug administration, particularly in the absence of cutaneous lesions. Accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for patient recovery.

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