[DRESS syndrome due to antituberculosis drugs. Review and comments].

Abstract

DiHS/DRESS (drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome/drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms) syndrome due to antituberculosis drugs is a rare but serious adverse reaction that affects both adults and children and can compromise the success of treatment and ultimately the patient's life. The most frequently associated drug was rifampicin. It is crucial to identify the causative agent(s) early, since the manifestations can progress rapidly and lead to potentially fatal complications, such as multiorgan failure. DiHS/ DRESS is caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to drugs, manifested by fever, adenopathy, rash, eosinophilia and visceral involvement. This heterogeneous syndrome with systemic and potentially fatal involvement must be addressed by a multidisciplinary team. There is no unique protocol for the management of DiHS/DRESS, and in this narrative review we analyze the international literature in light of the accumulated experience in its management in a reference centre for tuberculosis.