Levofloxacin-induced radiation recall dermatitis: a case report and a review of the literature

Clin Breast Cancer. 2010 Oct 1;10(5):404-6. doi: 10.3816/CBC.2010.n.054.

Abstract

Radiation recall dermatitis (RRD) is a rare phenomenon. There are a few reports in the literature reporting RRD triggered by quinolones administration after external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). We present an unusual case of RRD induced by levofloxacin 7 months after completion of EBRT. A 56-year-old Caucasian female was treated with EBRT for stage I carcinoma of the right breast with whole breast irradiation followed by the boost to the tumor bed to a total dose of 6080 cGy. Seven months post completion of EBRT, levofloxacin was administered for an upper respiratory tract infection. On day 8 of levofloxacin, the patient developed a blistering RRD in the skin overlying the area of previous radiation portals. Discontinuation of the RRD-inducing antibiotic and appropriate therapy led to the resolution of the condition. We review literature emphasizing this quinolone antibiotic as a causative of RRD.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery
  • Carcinoma, Lobular / radiotherapy*
  • Carcinoma, Lobular / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Levofloxacin*
  • Middle Aged
  • Ofloxacin / adverse effects*
  • Ofloxacin / therapeutic use
  • Radiodermatitis / chemically induced*
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Levofloxacin
  • Ofloxacin