Abstract

Abstract Disclosure: I.R. Ranasinghe: None. M.S. Elston: None. V. Boyle: None. Introduction: Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome/drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS/DIHS) is a severe life-threatening adverse reaction to specific drugs, including cephalosporin antibiotics (1). It is characterised by rash, fever, eosinophilia, lymphadenopathy, and inflammation of internal organs. Endocrine complications in the form of thyroid disease and Type 1 Diabetes have been reported following DRESS/DIHS (2). We report a case of thyroiditis and hypophysitis following cephalosporin-associated DRESS/DIHS. Case: A 21-year-old male farmer suffered a tractor crash accident resulting in hospitalization for bilateral compound distal femur fractures. He had no past medical history of note. One month later, he developed a maculopapular rash involving his limbs, mouth ulcers, fever, liver function derangement and eosinophilia. Punch biopsy was consistent with DRESS/DHIS. A 2- week tapering course of prednisone was initiated at 40mg daily in conjunction with a topical corticosteroid for 9 days with resolution of rash. Review of medication charts identified the most likely causative agent as cefazolin. An Endocrine consult was requested a month later due to new hypercalcemia. Investigations revealed new onset thyrotoxicosis and a decreasing morning cortisol over the following week despite having stopped all steroids one month earlier, normal ACTH, mildly elevated prolactin and secondary hypogonadism. Short Synacthen test showed suboptimal response. TRAb were negative and technetium thyroid scanning demonstrated a thyroiditis. MRI pituitary was unremarkable. He was commenced on hydrocortisone replacement for symptomatic cortisol deficiency. Biochemical abnormalities gradually normalized and his hydrocortisone ceased with symptomatic resolution. Endocrine involvement, particularly pancreas and thyroid has previously been reported in cases of DHIS/DRESS (3) (4). In this case, DHIS/DRESS-associated hypophysitis with thyroiditis may explain the clinical findings of pituitary dysfunction affecting multiple pituitary axes and the gradual recovery to normal pituitary function.

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