Diagnosis of drug reaction syndrome with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), which is a rare condition, can be observed in patients undergoing therapy for tuberculosis. This particular side effect, associated with the consumption of an Anti-tuberculosis Drug (ATD), has been known to lead to fatal outcomes.
A 19-year-old male individual was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis and started a 4-day treatment regimen comprising a fixed combination of ATD. Subsequent to the administration of the drugs, the patient experienced a severe skin reaction characterized by widespread erythematous macules with well-defined borders. The patient`s condition improved after administration of Methylprednisolone at an intravenous daily dosage of 62.5 mg.
A preliminary assessment was conducted based on a previous report, indicating red patches on the body, increased white blood cell count, and elevated eosinophils after anti-tuberculosis medication. These findings align with a probable case of DRESS as per the Registry of Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reaction (RegiSCAR) scoring system.
Steroids show efficacy in treating DRESS when anti-tuberculosis drug therapy starts.