DRESS syndrome secondary to sulfonamides in a 14-year-old adolescent: Case report

Abstract

Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS Syndrome) is a rare but severe adverse drug reaction characterized by generalized exanthem, systemic symptoms such as fever and lymphadenopathy, and organ involvement most often affecting the liver along with laboratory findings of eosinophilia and elevated transaminases. We describe a 14-year-old patient treated with sulfamethoxazole for retinitis secondary to toxoplasmosis, who develop generalized exanthem, systemic manifestations, and abnormal laboratory results. The patient met RegiSCAR diagnostic criteria for DRESS Syndrome and was treated with intravenous corticosteroids and human intravenous immunoglobulin achieving clinical improvement. This case highlights the importance of considering DRESS Syndrome in pediatric patients who develop compatible symptoms after initiating pharmacologic therapy, as early recognition and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications.