Reactive Infectious Mucocutaneous Eruption Following Isolated Rhinovirus Infection: Clinical Presentation and Treatment Response

This case report describes a 16-year-old male who presented with a mucosal-predominant blistering eruption triggered by a rhinovirus infection, consistent with a diagnosis of reactive infectious mucocutaneous eruption (RIME). RIME is a rare condition characterized by severe mucositis and relatively mild cutaneous symptoms, in contrast to other severe cutaneous reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. RIME occurs in the setting of respiratory infections, with <i>Mycoplasma pneumoniae</i> being the most cited agent, though other viral infections, including COVID-19, have been implicated. This case is notable as it represents one of the first reported instances of RIME associated with rhinovirus alone, without the presence of other respiratory pathogens. The authors emphasize the importance of recognizing RIME as a distinct clinical entity, as reported cases of RIME have increased in recent years. Further research is needed to better characterize this condition and improve diagnostic awareness among clinicians.