[Captopril induced lichenoid eruption].

The authors report three cases of Captopril induced lichenoid eruption, already unmentionned, as far as they know. This cutaneous adverse reaction seemed to be dose related. Late onset was possible, even after six months of therapy. Violaceous papules or plaques were localized (two cases) or disseminated (one case) on the skin. The oral cavity was spared, but mucous membrane may be involved (localisation on the glans penis in one case). Histopathology was suggestive of lichen, but cellular dermal infiltrate was rather sparse. Immunofluorescent study in one case showed anti-IgM and C4 deposits on dermal colloid bodies. Captopril withdrawal was followed by improvement. Reviewing the literature, the authors are questionning about the fact that chemical structures of Penicillamine, Pyritinol and Captopril are strikingly similar and perhaps causative.