Abstract 16015: A Rare Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reaction With Apixaban

We report a case of apixaban-induced macular rash noticed 3 days after its initiation for atrial fibrillation. Patient denied any fever, arthralgias, myalgias or photosensitivity otherwise. On presentation, she complained of generalized pruritus with a bilateral non-blanchable macular rash on distal lower extremities and dorsum of feet. The labs showed normal cell counts, an elevated serum creatinine of 2.29mg/dl with a bland urine on microscopy. Apixaban was switched to LMWH. Serum creatinine returned to baseline with fluid therapy within 24 hours. Patient was re-challenged with apixaban that caused recurrence of generalized pruritus. It was treated successfully with diphenhydramine and prednisone. She was restarted on LMWH and rash disappeared after 3 days of stopping apixaban. She was later commenced on rivaroxaban without any complications. Several cutaneous adverse drug reactions (cADR) have been reported with direct acting oral anticoagulants (DOAC) like rivaroxaban and edoxaban but are extremely rare with apixaban. The overall reported incidence of dermatologic immune reactions with FXa inhibitors is <0.1%. Previously reported skin eruptions from apixaban include palmoplantar psoriasiform rash, leucocytoclastic vasculitis and acute generalized erythematous pustulosis. Our patient’s Naranjo scale was 7 and her rash improved after cessation of apixaban. The case illustrates a hypersensitivity reaction from apixaban that did not have cross-reactivity with other FXa inhibitors. Early recognition of cADR from this widely used DOAC can avoid potential complications. Minor reactions may be managed by switching to different DOAC therapy. Whether a cross-reactivity truly exists must be explored by validated skin testing.