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Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DHS), also sometimes known as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), frequently has cutaneous manifestations, and it can be life-threatening. This syndrome has been linked to the use of abacavir, used as therapy in HIV-infected patients. Because of the danger, patients suspected of having a hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir should stop taking it. Genetic testing that might predict who will develop this reaction is now available. Successful screening could prevent a potentially serious eruption in those with a likely sensitivity and identify patients whose reactions are due to some other cause and may, therefore, continue to receive this valuable drug.
Mallal and colleagues p…