Dapsone Hypersensitivity Syndrome a Case Report

Dapsone is a potent antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory drug used mainly in the treatment of leprosy and a variety of dermatological conditions. Idiosyncratic reaction to dapsone causes a generalised hypersensitivity syndrome called as dapsone syndrome or dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome (DHS). We report a patient who presented with fever, skin eruptions, cervical lymphadenopathy and jaundice. Laboratory investigations revealed anaemia, leucocytosis with eosinophilia and deranged liver enzymes. Withdrawal of dapsone and administration of steroids proved successful. A high suspicion is essential for early diagnosis of dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome and avoiding severe morbidity or even death.