Vancomycin-associated drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome: masquerading under the guise of sepsis

A patient presented with what appeared to be severe urosepsis. After admission and antibiotic administration, a newly developed rash and subsequent facial swelling appeared to be a reaction to penicillin class antibiotics. However, despite changing class of therapy with continued antimicrobial coverage, end organ damage continued, the rash worsened and facial oedema developed. Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms was ultimately diagnosed and was consistent with clinical and histopathological findings, as well as meeting all criteria for scoring systems. The patient was started on intravenous methylprednisolone 125 mg per 8 hours with rapid improvement of rash, swelling and end organ damage. Initial challenge to decrease dose failed, but the patient was ultimately able to be discharged on an extended taper.