title: Phenytoin-induced drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome: a case report from the emergency department.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is an uncommon but serious hypersensitivity drug reaction most frequently associated with antiepileptics. Clinical manifestations include rash, fever, and visceral organ involvement, most commonly hepatitis. The mortality rate associated with DRESS syndrome is approximately 10%, the majority due to fulminant liver failure.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  We report one case of phenytoin-induced DRESS syndrome in a patient who presented to the Emergency Department (ED). Our objectives for this case report include: 1) to learn the importance of DRESS syndrome; 2) to recognize the signs and symptoms of DRESS syndrome; 3) to know what diagnostic studies are indicated; and 4) to learn the appropriate treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  We report one case of phenytoin-induced DRESS syndrome in a 34-year-old man, previously on phenytoin for seizure prophylaxis, who presented to the ED with 5 days of worsening symptoms including generalized rash, fever, tongue swelling, and dysphagia. Laboratory results revealed an eosinophilia and elevated liver enzymes. With initiation of steroids, the transaminitis improved despite increasing eosinophilia and development of an atypical lymphocytosis. Fever and angioedema resolved with improvement of the rash, and the patient was discharged on hospital day 3.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Given the significant mortality related to DRESS syndrome, ED staff should have a low threshold for suspecting the condition in patients who present with unusual complaints and skin findings after starting any antiepileptic drug. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with corticosteroids is imperative.
authors.affiliation: Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.
authors.forename: Lindsay L
authors.initials: LL
authors.lastname: Oelze
authors.forename: M Tyson
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Pillow
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000799:Angioedema / Q000139:chemically induced; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000209:etiology*; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D004802:Eosinophilia / Q000139:chemically induced*; D005076:Exanthema / Q000139:chemically induced; D005334:Fever / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010672:Phenytoin / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants; D010672:Phenytoin