Long-term sequelae of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms: a retrospective cohort study from Taiwan

Abstract

Background: The development of autoimmune sequelae is one of the characteristic features of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) or drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome; however, the incidence of sequelae and prognosis of patients with DRESS are unknown.

Objective: We sought to investigate the incidence of sequelae, including less well-known sequelae, and long-term prognosis in patients with DRESS/drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a medical center in northern Taiwan using a DRESS/drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome database. Patients who were followed up for at least 1 year were included in the study.

Results: Nine patients died before interview, whereas 43 patients completed a specially designed questionnaire. The overall cumulative incidence of long-term sequelae was 11.5% (6 of 52 patients). Four patients developed autoimmune diseases, specifically Graves disease (n = 2), type 1 diabetes mellitus (n = 1), and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (n = 1). Alopecia areata was also noted in 1 of the 2 patients with Graves disease. The other 2 patients developed renal failure after visceral involvement and required lifetime hemodialysis.

Limitations: Our study included a small number of patients. Further, viral studies were not performed.

Conclusion: The sequelae of DRESS can be divided into 2 major types that appear to occur in different age groups: young patients tend to develop autoimmune diseases, whereas elderly patients are more vulnerable to end-organ failure.