Which of the following Anti-TB drug can cause “Steven Johnson Syndrome”?
Hmm, from what I've studied, sulfonamides and pyrazinamide are known for causing SJS. Also, some anticonvulsants like carbamazepine. But among the anti-TB drugs, pyrazinamide (PZA) is a big one. Oh right, and ethambutol? Wait, no, ethambutol's main side effect is optic neuritis. I think PZA is more likely here. So the correct answer would be pyrazinamide.
Now, the options weren't provided, but let's assume the options are standard anti-TB drugs. Let's say option C is pyrazinamide. Then, the correct answer would be C.
Why is pyrazinamide the right choice? Because it's a known cause of hypersensitivity reactions, including SJS. The mechanism involves immune-mediated hypersensitivity. Other drugs like INH can cause liver toxicity, and RIF can cause flu-like symptoms. Ethambutol causes optic neuropathy. So the other options are incorrect because they don't cause SJS.
Clinical pearl: Remember that SJS is a severe reaction with a high mortality rate. It's important to recognize early signs like rash, fever, and mucosal involvement. If a patient on TB treatment develops these symptoms, PZA should be considered a culprit.
Let me structure this into the required sections. Make sure each part is concise. Core concept is about drug-induced hypersensitivity. Then explain why PZA is correct, then each wrong option. Then the clinical pearl. Finally, the correct answer line.
**Core Concept**
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a severe immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction, often drug-induced, characterized by skin and mucosal blistering. Anti-TB drugs like **pyrazinamide** are classic culprits due to their association with hypersensitivity pathways.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pyrazinamide (PZA) is a well-documented cause of SJS in TB treatment. Its mechanism involves activation of T-cell-mediated hypersensitivity, leading to keratinocyte apoptosis via cytokine release (e.g., TNF-α). PZA’s structural similarity to sulfonamides may also contribute to cross-reactivity in hypersensitive individuals.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A (Isoniazid):** Primarily causes hepatotoxicity and peripheral neuropathy, not SJS.
**Option B (Rifampicin):** Known for inducing drug-induced hepatitis and red-orange body fluids, not SJS.
**Option D (Ethambutol):** Causes optic neuritis and visual disturbances, unrelated to SJS.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
**Remember:** SJS is a medical emergency with high morbidity. In TB patients, discontinue **pyrazinamide** immediately if SJS is suspected. Cross-reactivity with sulfonamides is a red flag—avoid both in