19th February 2024

A 45-year-old female with hypertension was commenced on diltiazem

A 45-year-old female with hypertension was commenced on diltiazem. Twenty-four hours after commencing this, she developed a fever and widespread rash, prompting hospital admission. On examination, she was febrile and had widespread erythema and multiple pustules across approximately 90% of her body surface area, including her face, trunk and extremities. Blood tests showed leucocytosis and neutrophilia.

Which of the following best describes the pathogenesis of the underlying diagnosis?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.