Abstract

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a potentially fatal cutaneous reaction caused by therapeutic drugs. The pathophysiology of this disease is unknown, although it is induced by several precipitating factors such as genetics, viral reactivation, and specific drugs such as anticonvulsants, antibiotics, and so on. It is akin to cutaneous manifestations such as skin rashes, pruritus, and fever, but it also encompasses desquamation of the epidermis and other dermatological reactions and lymphadenopathy. Systemic involvement occurs depending on the organ affected. The European Registry of Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions to Drugs and Collection of Biological Samples (Regi SCAR) criteria for DRESS syndrome are used to diagnose the condition. The treatment consists of discontinuing the causative drug and treating the patient with antihistamines and emollients in the mild form, corticosteroids in the intermediate form, and plasmapheresis in the severe form, as well as various alternative medications. Healthcare providers should be more cautious of early signs of this condition, as early diagnostic and treatment enhance better outcomes significantly.