A 55-year-old woman developed a rare skin disorder just 48 hours after starting a new inhaler for COPD — raising fresh concerns about unexpected side effects from commonly prescribed medications.

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The patient, previously stable on formoterol and enalapril, was switched to an indacaterol/glycopyrronium inhaler to improve her lung function. Soon after, she developed painful red plaques on her face and neck, along with a mild fever. With no new cosmetics, foods, or infections involved, doctors suspected a reaction to the new inhaler.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573537220192

A dermatologist performed a biopsy, confirming Sweet syndrome — a rare inflammatory skin condition marked by sudden painful lesions and fever. While Sweet syndrome has been linked to oral and injectable drugs, this is among the first reported cases tied to an inhaled therapy.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573537220192

Treatment with corticosteroids brought rapid improvement, but the case underscores important lessons for clinicians: even inhaled medications, typically considered low-risk, can in rare instances trigger systemic immune responses.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573537220192

For primary care providers, early recognition and referral were key to the successful outcome. For patients, the case highlights the importance of reporting unusual symptoms quickly after starting a new medication.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573537220192

Though rare, this case expands understanding of Sweet syndrome and potential inhaler side effects.