Urticarial vasculitis secondary to paroxetine.

Paroxetine (Paxil) is a widely prescribed antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class for which multiple cutaneous adverse effects have been reported, including urticaria, ecchymoses, vasculitis, and pruritus. In contrast, fluoxetine (Prozac) is the only SSRI previously reported to cause urticarial vasculitis. Urticarial vasculitis is a chronic disorder marked by recurrent episodes of erythematous, indurated wheals that histologically manifest the features of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. This case represents the first reported incidence of paroxetine-induced urticarial vasculitis, and highlights the need to consider the entire SSRI class as s as a potential cause of the condition.