Adalimumab‐induced leukocytoclastic vasculitis in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis: A case report

Abstract

Clinical Key Message In patients receiving anti‐TNF‐α drugs for ankylosing spondylitis, monitoring purpuric and ischemic skin lesions is crucial. This case underscores the significance of identifying and addressing drug‐induced vasculitis while stressing the necessity for prompt evaluation and exploration of alternative treatment options to safeguard patient well‐being. Abstract The case discusses a 38‐year‐old female with a history of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) who presented with skin lesions, including purpuric skin lesions and ischemia of her right foot digits, after initiating treatment with adalimumab. After excluding other potential causes, such as infections and malignancies, the patient received a diagnosis of moderate‐sized vascular vasculitis associated with adalimumab use. Discontinuation of adalimumab and treatment with high dose glucocorticoids and intravenous pulse of cyclophosphamide resulted in the resolution of her ischemic lesions. This case underscores the importance of considering drug‐related side effects in patients with new skin lesions, particularly in the context of rheumatic diseases such as AS.

Keywords

• adalimumab
• ankylosing spondylitis
• anti‐TNF‐α related vasculitis
• leukocytoclastic vasculitis
• necrotizing vasculitis
• polyarteritis nodosa