Affiliation:
1. Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences University of Witwatersrand 29 Carse O'Gowrie Road, Parktown Johannesburg Gauteng Province 0084 South Africa
Abstract
AbstractLip synechiae as a sequalae of erythema multiforme (EM) is rare. However, the condition results in significant dysfunctionality and disfigurement in affected individuals. The objective of this clinical case report is to highlight the importance of the preventative strategies in carbamazepine‐induced EM to alleviate complications such as lip synechiae. We reviewed a case report of lip synechiae as a sequelae of carbamazepine‐induced EM as well as the previously reported cases of lip synechiae. A 23‐year‐old female presented with the inability to open her mouth following carbamazepine exposure with concomitant eruption of mucocutaneous lesions on the torso, acral, conjunctiva and haemorrhagic crusting on both lips with fusion thereof. The lip synechiae resulted in dysfunction and disfigurement with reduced verbal articulation and mastication. Based on the history and the characteristic appearance of the mucocutaneous lesions, a diagnosis of EM was made. The suspected inciting drug was withdrawn followed by bilateral chalinoplasty. To prevent further adhesion of the lips, chlorhexidine‐impregnated paraffin gauze dressing was applied. The patient attained good functional and aesthetic outcomes.