Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic DRESS Syndrome: Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS syndrome), also known as drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome, is a rare severe systemic hypersensitivity drug reaction. Diagnosing DRESS syndrome is challenging due to non-specific manifestations that can make it difficult to recognize. Therefore, addressing and discussing this issue is extremely important, considering the potential lethality of a treatable syndrome. Clinical case: We describe the clinical characteristics of a 39-year-old female who presented with DRESS syndrome associated with the use of ciprofloxacin ophthalmic. The patient manifested a mild maculopapular rash located in the pelvic limbs with subsequent ascending distribution and generalized erythematoviolaceous affecting four extremities, trunk, facial region and scalp, together with fever and lymphadenopathy. Paraclinical tests revealed leukocytosis and eosinophilia. According to RegiScar's ranking, it scored 6 points, classifying it as the definitive case for DRESS. He concluded a schedule with prednisone 1 mg/kg/day with a slow reduction dose, obtaining a good response to treatment. Conclusions: DRESS syndrome should be suspected in a patient receiving medical treatment who presents with the following signs and symptoms: rash, fever (38°C), facial edema, and lymphadenopathy. Fortunately, this reaction is usually reversible, with a low incidence of residual damage or mortality, in the case of timely discontinuation of antibiotics and use of topical or systemic corticosteroids.