Colchicine intoxication diagnosed in a skin biopsy: a case report

Authors: Mason, Stephen E.¹; Smoller, Bruce R.¹; Wilkerson, Anne E.²

Source: Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 33, Number 4, April 2006 , pp. 309-311(3)

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Abstract:

Colchicine toxicity is a rare, but well-described clinical entity. The histopathologic findings in various organ systems have been delineated in colchicine intoxication; however, skin findings have only been described in rare cases. We present a case of colchicine toxicity diagnosed on skin biopsy in a patient presenting with mental status changes. Her cutaneous manifestation consisted of a diffuse, blanchable, violaceous, morbilliform rash involving the trunk and proximal extremities. The histopathologic findings included metaphase-arrested keratinocytes with underlying basal vacuolization. These features, considered in the setting of multiorgan dysfunction and a known exposure of colchicine, led to the diagnosis. Mason SE, Smoller BR, Wilkerson AE. Colchicine intoxication diagnosed in a skin biopsy: a case report.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.0303-6987.2006.00393.x

Affiliations: 1: Department of Pathology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, and 2: Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR

Publication date: 2006-04-01