Dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome causing disseminated intravascular coagulation

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Hematology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome is a severe idiosyncratic drug reaction.
• Clinical manifestations vary widely in presentation and severity.
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a rare but serious complication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first known case of DIC secondary to dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome.
• To highlight the diverse clinical spectrum of dapsone adverse reactions.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient experiencing dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome.
• Clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and treatment course documented.
• Exclusion of alternative etiologies through extensive investigations.

Main Results:

• Patient presented with fever, rash, abdominal pain, eosinophilia, and signs of oxidative hemolysis.
• Course complicated by DIC, splenic infarction, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Gradual recovery with supportive care, folic acid, and corticosteroid therapy.

Conclusions:

• Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a potential, previously undescribed adverse reaction to dapsone.
• Prompt recognition and management are crucial for patient recovery.
• Corticosteroids may be beneficial in managing severe dapsone hypersensitivity reactions.