Purpuric Eruptions Associated With Use of Carbromal and Meprobamate

Abstract

Purpuric eruptions are reported in four patients, all of whom were taking a carbromal-containing drug. The eruption began on the ankles in each patient and then progressed to the upper legs, thighs, buttocks, and lower abdomen. In addition to the purpura, erythema, papules, and hemosiderosis were present. The eruption tended to be pruritic in each case. One of the patients presented showed a cross-sensitivity with meprobamate, which caused a recrudescence of the eruption. Patients with carbromal sensitivity characteristically have a nonthrombocytopenic purpura with a positive cuff test. Treatment is symptomatic, and the eruption tends to clear in two to four weeks after cessation of the drug.