Which are the causes of Sweet Syndrome?

Sweet syndrome, also known as acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis, is a rare inflammatory skin condition characterized by the sudden onset of fever, painful skin lesions, and an increase in white blood cell count. The exact cause of Sweet syndrome is not fully understood, but there are several factors that have been associated with its development.

Infections: In some cases, Sweet syndrome can be triggered by an underlying infection. Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections have all been linked to the development of this condition. Common infections that have been associated with Sweet syndrome include respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, and urinary tract infections.

Autoimmune disorders: Sweet syndrome has been observed in individuals with certain autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory bowel disease. It is believed that the abnormal immune response seen in these conditions may contribute to the development of Sweet syndrome.

Medications: Certain medications have been reported to trigger Sweet syndrome. These include certain antibiotics (such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (a medication used to stimulate the production of white blood cells).

Malignancies: Sweet syndrome can sometimes be associated with an underlying malignancy, particularly hematologic malignancies such as leukemia and lymphoma. It is thought that the abnormal immune response triggered by the malignancy may lead to the development of Sweet syndrome.

Pregnancy: Sweet syndrome has been reported in pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester. The hormonal changes and altered immune response during pregnancy may contribute to the development of this condition.

Idiopathic: In many cases, the exact cause of Sweet syndrome remains unknown. These cases are referred to as idiopathic Sweet syndrome. It is believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors may play a role in the development of this condition.

It is important to note that while these factors have been associated with Sweet syndrome, not all individuals with these conditions or exposures will develop the syndrome. The exact mechanisms by which these factors contribute to the development of Sweet syndrome are still being investigated.