Fatal nevirapine-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome with HIV-associated mania

Abstract

Mania with psychotic features is one of the common presenting clusters of psychiatric symptoms in HIV-infected patients. Commonly, patients with HIV-associated mania receive antiretroviral treatment, mood stabilisers and antipsychotics. This case of Stevens-Johnson syndrome highlights the dilemmas and complications that may arise when prescribing multiple medications in HIV-associated psychiatric disorders.

Message from the Editor

“…First, Zingela et al [5] present an important case of Stevens-Johnson syndrome in a patient receiving both antipsychotic medications and a nevirapine-based antiretroviral regimen, reminding us of the pharmacological complexities of managing mental disorders in HIV-infected patients. Meanwhile, while we usually think of healthcare providers as being at risk of HIV transmission due to needlestick injuries, Ngene et al [6] present a case of a needlestick injury causing HIV exposure between patients.…”