[Fatal toxic epidermolysis following administration of allopurinol].

Six days after initiating therapy with allopurinol, toxic epidermal necrolysis developed in a 73-year-old man with renal failure. It was responsible for a generalized vasculitis and gastrointestinal bleeding ultimately leading to death. The authors emphasize the need for a careful evaluation before prescribing this medication, particularly in patients with renal failure.