Drug Rash With Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) Syndrome Due to Vancomycin

Cureus. 2022 Jun 22;14(6):e26219. doi: 10.7759/cureus.26219. eCollection 2022 Jun.

Abstract

Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a severe adverse drug reaction characterized by skin rash, fever, lymph node enlargement, and single or multiple organ involvement. Prompt diagnosis and withdrawal of the offending drug reduce mortality. We report a case of DRESS syndrome along with a review of the literature. We identified the case as DRESS syndrome based on the skin rash, fever, eosinophilia, and liver and kidney involvement. According to the European Registry of Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions to Drugs and Collection of Biological Samples (RegiSCAR), our patient had a score of 6. Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome is a severe form of drug reaction with the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Human leukocyte antigens (HLA) screening may be performed to prevent disease in susceptible patients. Steroids in a tapering dose are helpful in the resolution of symptoms.

Keywords: dress; eosinophilia; hypersensitivity; regiscar; vancomycin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports