Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to omeprazole-induced drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS): Case report and review of the literature

Eosinophilia in not an uncommon findings in the intensive care unit (ICU); however, DRESS (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms) syndrome, which is characterized by a hypersensitivity reaction to drugs and manifests as eosinophilia, systemic involvement and maculopapular erythematous rash 2–6 weeks after exposure to the offending drug, is an exceptional occurrence. We present the first case described in the literature of DRESS syndrome with pulmonary involvement in the form of interstitial pneumonitis and persistent adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) secondary to proton pump inhibitors (PPI). The patient made a good recovery after withdrawal of the offending drug and long-term treatment with systemic corticosteroids.

We also present a systematic review of all cases of DRESS with pulmonary involvement in the form of interstitial pneumonitis and cases of PPI-induced DRESS published to date; none of these describe pulmonary involvement.