Amprenavir-induced maculopapular exanthem followed by desensitization in a patient with late-stage human immunodeficiency virus.

BACKGROUND

Amprenavir, a human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) protease inhibitor, is approved for the treatment of HIV infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents in treatment-naive and experienced patients. Amprenavir is generally well tolerated. However, cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions to amprenavir occur in up to 28% of patients, with treatment discontinuation required in 3% of cases.

OBJECTIVE

To report successful desensitization to amprenavir after the occurrence of a maculopapular exanthem in an HIV-infected patient with late-stage disease and limited antiretroviral treatment options.

METHODS

Incremental doses of 0.025, 0.1, 0.25, 1, 2.5, 7.5, 25, 50, 100, 300, 600, and 1,200 mg of amprenavir oral solution were administered via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube at 20- to 30-minute intervals.

RESULTS

The patient successfully tolerated amprenavir desensitization and has continued therapy without recurrence of rash at 19 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Desensitization may permit the continued use of amprenavir in HIV-positive patients with a history of amprenavir-induced maculopapular eruptions who have limited alternate treatment options.