DRESS syndrome after carbamazepine use

Abstract

Objective: To report a case of DRESS Syndrome associated with the use of carbamazepine, in the postoperative period of meningioma excision, since this condition of adverse reaction to medication has high mortality rates although low prevalence. Case details: Female, 55 years old, using carbamazepine for about 30 days, after neurosurgery, complaining of exanthema and diffuse itching, in addition to coughing and fever. Results of laboratory tests show eosinophilia, elevation of hepatic and canalicular enzymes and hyperbilirubinemia. Thus, after diagnosing the DRESS Syndrome, corticosteroid therapy and symptomatic medication were started to relieve the intense itching. During hospitalization, the patient evolves with an improvement in the reactional condition, being discharged after completing other treatments inherent to the prolonged hospitalization. Conclusion: Anticonvulsants correspond to the main drug class associated with hypersensitivity syndrome and secondary adverse reactions to the use of medications. A rare condition with a high potential for complications, when recognized early and properly managed, it presents a favorable response in most cases.