Blistering eruptions, rash of unknown cause and adverse drug reactions

The Minimum information for referrals to non-admitted specialist services lists the information that should be included in a referral request.

Eligibility

At least one must be met for the patient to be eligible for referral.

Clinically suspected or confirmed blistering eruptions, rash of unknown cause and adverse drug reactions with initial primary-care work-up completed

Red flags

Indicate urgent (Category 1) referral or emergency assessment.

Anaphylaxis

Any rash causing widespread erythema of the skin with signs of systemic illness

High fever, lymphadenopathy, eosinophilia and systemic illness that may indicate a drug hypersensitivity syndrome

Mucosal erosions, skin pain, blisters, pustules and/or fever that may indicate the development of toxic epidermal necrolysis

Suspected Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)

Routine referral criteria

Determine Category 2 or 3 urgency.

Blistering or erosive skin eruptions

Rapidly evolving severe or widespread skin eruption with uncertain diagnosis or possibly linked to an adverse drug reaction

Persistent rash of unknown cause that has not responded to medical management

Usually managed in primary care