Severe Drug-Induced Dermatosis in a Geriatric Patient: A Case Report

Older adults are particularly vulnerable to adverse drug reactions (ADRs) due to age-related physiological changes and polypharmacy. Among these, drug-induced dermatoses are common but often underdiagnosed, especially when presentation is atypical or when patients use unregulated treatments. We report the case of a 71-year-old woman who developed erythroderma, pruritus, and desquamation following the use of prescribed medications alongside topical and herbal self-medication. Hospitalization was required after outpatient treatment failed. Skin biopsy revealed an acute inflammatory pattern consistent with pharmacodermia. Conservative treatment with systemic corticosteroids and topical emollients achieved full remission without complications. This case highlights the diagnostic complexity of ADRs in older adults, particularly in the context of incomplete medication histories and the use of natural products. It emphasizes the need for heightened clinical suspicion, thorough medication review, and pharmacovigilance to prevent escalation of cutaneous toxicity in the elderly.