A 55-year-old woman developed a rare and serious skin reaction shortly after a change in her respiratory medication. She had a history of hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which had been well controlled for years with stable treatment. However, after her inhaler was switched to a combination containing indacaterol and glycopyrronium, she suddenly began experiencing painful red lesions on her face and neck, along with a mild fever and general discomfort.

Concerned by the rapid onset of symptoms, doctors referred her to dermatology specialists. Because the reaction appeared soon after the medication change, physicians suspected a drug-related cause. The new inhaler was immediately discontinued, and the patient was treated with oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Laboratory tests showed signs of acute inflammation but ruled out infections, autoimmune diseases, and other systemic illnesses.

Within 48 hours of stopping the medication and beginning treatment, her condition improved significantly. The fever subsided, the pain decreased, and the skin lesions began to fade. A skin biopsy later confirmed the diagnosis as Sweet syndrome, a rare inflammatory disorder characterized by sudden, painful skin plaques, fever, and elevated white blood cells.

This case highlights how even commonly prescribed medications can rarely trigger serious reactions. Early recognition, stopping the suspected drug, and starting proper treatment were crucial for the patient’s recovery. Doctors emphasize that careful monitoring of new symptoms after medication changes is essential for ensuring patient safety. READ MORE BELOW