emDocs - August 15, 2017 - Authors: Nemero M and Oliver J
Edited by: Koyfman A and Long B
"Key Points
- DRESS syndrome should be suspected whenever a patient presents with a fever, morbilliform rash, and lymphadenopathy following a medication change.
- Liver failure is the leading cause of mortality in DRESS syndrome
- Frequently co-exists with herpesvirus, CMV, or EBV reactivation
- The mainstay of treatment is stopping the offending agent
- DRESS without severe organ involvement is treated outpatient with topical steroids
- DRESS with severe organ involvement warrants hospitalization and the use of systemic corticosteroids"