Drug-Induced Reaction With Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms: A Review

Drug-induced reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a part of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR), often a life-threatening condition. DRESS is an uncommon reaction; however, it is more prevalent than Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) and is left undiagnosed due to its atypical clinical presentation. So far, no standard criteria or investigational tool assists in early and accurate diagnosis. The administration of systemic corticosteroids remains the widely used first line of management. However, new studies have revealed other potential treatment armamentariums. Because of the potential life-threatening outcome, every physician who deals with acute cases should be familiar with the clinical presentation and be able to start the necessary measurements. Recent studies revealed important information in the pathogenesis and management of the disorder were summarized in this review.