Newly Uncovered Aspects of Drug-Induced Hypersensitivity Syndrome

Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS) is a multi-organ disorder characterized by cutaneous disease, eosinophilia, and multi-organ failure occurring within 8 weeks after the introduction of a drug. The original description concerned aromatic anticonvulsants and was termed “anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome.” Later the name “drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms” (DRESS) was coined but has been replaced by DIHS. Aside from drug cessation, corticosteroids are the therapeutic choice for this condition. Most reports have been retrospective reviews of limited numbers of patients.

These investigators prospectively collected data on 24 patients presenting over a 3.5-year period. Half were men, and roughly half had Fitzpatr…