How to address skin reactions from ofatumumab treatment?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am concerned about my 41-year-old wife’s reaction to Ofatumumab. After each injection, she develops unusual rashes on her arms that resemble butterfly patterns. Her injection sites remain red and swollen for weeks, and she is also noticing bruise-like marks appearing in other areas of her body. The pharmacist mentioned that these are not listed side effects of the medication.

Should we be worried about these reactions, and is it necessary to stop the medication?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

The butterfly-shaped rash and the redness, swelling, and bruise-like marks after her Ofatumumab injection are likely reactions to the medication. These types of reactions are not uncommon, especially with the first dose, and often improve over time as the body adjusts. However, since these symptoms have persisted for several weeks, it is important that she is seen in person for a full reassessment. A clinical examination will help determine whether these symptoms are part of a more severe reaction to the medication. This will also guide whether additional treatments or discontinuing Kesimpta is necessary. If she is unable or unwilling to visit the emergency room (ER), I recommend taking her temperature, pulse rate, and blood pressure. Additionally, a photo of the rash and swelling would be helpful to guide further management.

Probable causes of her symptoms could include:

Drug-induced lupus erythematosus.
A severe allergic reaction.
A local reaction to the injection.

The most likely diagnosis at this stage appears to be drug-induced lupus erythematosus, but further evaluation is needed to confirm.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.