Rare Case Links Apixaban to Severe Periorbital Dermatitis: Highlights Need for Vigilance in Dermatological Reactions
USA: In a rare clinical presentation, researchers have documented a case of periorbital dermatitis linked to the use of apixaban, a commonly prescribed oral anticoagulant. The case, published in the Wisconsin Medical Journal, emphasizes the importance of considering drug-induced skin reactions in patients with persistent dermatological symptoms of unknown origin.
The case involved a 76-year-old woman who developed intense inflammation and irritation around her eyes, clinically referred to as periorbital dermatitis, approximately three weeks after initiating treatment with apixaban. Despite multiple therapeutic interventions over nearly two years, her symptoms remained unresolved.
The patient was prescribed several treatments, including antihistamines, topical corticosteroids of different potencies, calcineurin inhibitors, and emollients. However, none of these approaches brought lasting or meaningful relief. The breakthrough came after apixaban was discontinued and replaced with another anticoagulant, rivaroxaban. Following this change, the patient’s periorbital dermatitis showed complete resolution, strongly suggesting a causal relationship between apixaban and the skin condition.
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