FATAL reactions during antibiotic therapy are rare, considering the number of patients who are treated with such drugs. When fatalities do occur, they should be studied and reported so that, if possible, such untoward results may be prevented, or at least treated with some success.
The case reported here was presented before the Los Angeles Dermatological Society under the title of "Fatal Penicillin Reaction Resembling Dermatitis Gangrenosa Infantum."1 In view of the discussion at the time, and after communication with Stetson2 and Shwartzman,3 it is felt that a more complete presentation of the case is desirable. Furthermore, the diagnosis as presented at the Los Angeles Dermatological Society needs correction and clarification.
REPORT OF A CASE
C. C., a Mexican girl aged 5 1/2 months, was in good health until one week previous to her first admission to Santa Barbara General Hospital for rubeola, March 31, 1951. Treatment consisted of administration of immune measles globulin,