Treatment of DRESS Syndrome in Children (Under 18 Years)
Clinical Scenario
This protocol addresses DRESS syndrome presenting in pediatric patients under the age of 18. The treatment approach in this age group follows principles similar to those applied in adults, with the specific regimen adapted to the paediatric context.
Patient Population
Children (age under 18 years) diagnosed with DRESS. Appropriate management must account for the patient's age when selecting and structuring treatment.
Treatment Approach (Overview)
Management typically involves systemic corticosteroids continued over an extended period with a gradual taper. In milder presentations, topical corticosteroids of sufficient potency may be considered, applied across the affected skin surface.
Full regimen details — including dosing, duration, and sequencing — are available in the complete protocol.
References
- The treatment of pediatric DRESS is similar to that for adults.
- Systemic corticosteroids are frequently used in case series (85% of cases) at doses of 0.5–1 mg/kg/day.
- Corticosteroid therapy should be continued for several months, with a gradual taper to prevent rebound effects upon discontinuation.
- Class III (potent) or IV (very potent) topical corticosteroids have shown good efficacy in mild cases of DRESS, initially with daily application over the entire body.
DOI: 10.1016/j.annder.2025.103381
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