Severe and Fatal Phenobarbitone Eruptions

The document reports on four cases of severe and sometimes fatal skin eruptions caused by phenobarbitone, a commonly used barbiturate, over an 18-month period in one hospital. Two patients died, while one severe case was saved by A.C.T.H. The affected individuals, including elderly patients and a younger patient with epilepsy, experienced severe skin reactions, high fever, and systemic symptoms. The report underscores the need for heightened awareness of these rare but serious reactions, which may often be underestimated or misdiagnosed.