Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) associated with azithromycin in acute Epstein-Barr virus infection

Pediatr Dermatol. 2011 Nov-Dec;28(6):741-743. doi: 10.1111/j.1525-1470.2011.01558.x. Epub 2011 Oct 20.

Abstract

We report the first pediatric case of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms associated with azithromycin use in the setting of acute Epstein-Barr virus infection in an 8-year-old boy. Our patient presented with fever, cutaneous eruption, eosinophilia, and hypotension requiring intensive care unit admission. He was discharged in good condition without any long-term sequelae. This case underscores the importance of timely and accurate diagnosis of acute viral infections and appropriate use of antibiotics as well as recognition of the clinical signs of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Azithromycin / adverse effects*
  • Azithromycin / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Diphenhydramine / therapeutic use
  • Drug Eruptions / diagnosis*
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology
  • Eosinophilia / chemically induced*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / diagnosis
  • Fever / chemically induced
  • Humans
  • Hypotension / chemically induced
  • Male
  • Methylprednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Pharyngitis / complications
  • Pharyngitis / drug therapy
  • Syndrome
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Virus Latency

Substances

  • Azithromycin
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Methylprednisolone