Abstract

CLOBAZAM-INDUCED DRUG REACTION WITH EOSINOPHILIA AND SYSTEMIC SYMPTOMS (DRESS SYNDROME): A RARE CASE REPORT

Dr. Raghottam R. Kulkarni*, Dr. Mukunda N. and Dr. Anuradha H. V.

ABSTRACT

Background: Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and SystemicSymptoms (DRESS) is a severe hypersensitivity reaction, part of theSevere Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCAR) syndromes. It ischaracterized by rash, fever, and multiorgan involvement, primarilyaffecting the liver and kidneys. Common drugs implicated in DRESSinclude allopurinol, phenytoin, and carbamazepine. More recently, theFDA has warned about DRESS associated with levetiracetam andclobazam. Case Description: A 78-year-old male with epilepsy,initially treated with phenytoin, was switched to levetiracetam 500 mgBD and clobazam 10 mg OD. After two months of therapy, the patientdeveloped a widespread rash, eosinophilia, elevated Total LeukocyteCount (TLC), and raised serum creatinine. He was diagnosed withDRESS based on RegiSCAR criteria. Clobazam was discontinued, andthe patient recovered following symptomatic and corticosteroidtreatment. Conclusion: Although DRESS due to clobazam is rare, it isa potentially life-threatening condition that requires early diagnosis and management.Clinicians must remain vigilant and conduct thorough monitoring when prescribingclobazam, as immediate cessation of the drug is crucial to prevent fatal outcomes.

Keywords: Clobazam, DRESS, ADR, epilepsy.