Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) in the pediatric population: A systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Background: Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a drug-induced hypersensitivity reaction that can have fatal complications. Although substantial data exist regarding DRESS in adults, to our knowledge, a systematic review of available literature has not been performed in children.

Objective: To review available data on DRESS in the pediatric population.

Methods: A systematic literature review was performed for pediatric (aged <18 years) patients with DRESS.

Results: We included 82 articles with 148 patients; of these, 97.9% experienced a skin rash, and the liver was the second most common organ involved (84.5%). Among 143 patients for which a treatment regimen was reported, 85.3% were treated with systemic steroids. Intravenous immunoglobulin alone failed to improve symptoms in 5 patients who were initially misdiagnosed, whereas those treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and steroids (2.7%) showed rapid clinical improvement. The mortality rate was low (3.0%). Complications included multiorgan failure and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Limitations: Limitations included limited availability of data for statistical analysis.

Conclusion: Pediatric DRESS commonly involves the liver. With treatment, the prognosis is commonly good, but serious complications may occur. Corticosteroids, possibly in conjunction with intravenous immunoglobulin in severe cases, may serve as an effective, valuable treatment of pediatric DRESS.

Keywords: DRESS; drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms; pediatric dermatology.