Exanthème intertrigineux symétrique lié à une intoxication aiguë au fréon : rapport d’un cas original

Abstract

Cutaneous manifestations related to chlorofluorocarbons, particularly freon, are rare and are most often limited to contact lesions such as xerosis, dermatitis, or frostbite. Diffuse eruptions remain exceptional and poorly described. We report an original case of symmetrical intertriginous exanthema occurring in the context of accidental acute freon poisoning. A 38-year-old man presented with neurological and respiratory symptoms following domestic exposure to a defective refrigerator. Four days after exposure, a pruritic eruption appeared, initially involving the antecubital and axillary folds and subsequently extending to the flanks and inguinal regions. Clinical examination revealed bilateral, symmetric intertriginous erythematous plaques surmounted by non-follicular pustules, sparing the face, palms, soles, and mucous membranes. Laboratory investigations were normal, and no recent drug intake was reported. The diagnosis of symmetrical intertriginous exanthema secondary to acute freon poisoning was established based on clinical history and temporal association. Removal of the toxic source, combined with topical corticosteroids and antihistamines, led to complete resolution within four days. This case highlights that acute freon poisoning may induce atypical cutaneous eruptions mimicking drug-induced toxicoderma and should be recognized as an exceptional environmental cause of exanthema.