New research is uncovering genetic predispositions to
developing DRESS Syndrome
RICHMOND, Va., July 8, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- In honor of National DRESS Syndrome Day,
July 16, the DRESS Syndrome
Foundation is raising awareness about genetic predispositions to
developing severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCARs) like
DRESS Syndrome. DRESS is a life-threatening condition that results
from taking medications, most commonly antibiotics and
anticonvulsants. Researchers are working to reveal the link between
our genes and these drugs. The goal is to more effectively treat —
and prevent — DRESS Syndrome.
"Worldwide, patients are often prescribed medications without a
full understanding as to whether these drugs are safe for them to
take," explains Tasha Tolliver,
Executive Director of the DRESS Syndrome Foundation. "We're
thankful that a global team of dedicated researchers is identifying
genetic markers that make people susceptible to developing severe
drug reactions. This will be a huge step forward in preventing
DRESS Syndrome while helping to manage risk and prevent harm."
To date, the medical community has discovered that select drugs
carry genetic risk factors for getting DRESS Syndrome and other
SCARs. The prevalence of individual genes can vary, depending on
the population, like Asian, European, Thai, etc. When
patients carry a genetic risk, they have a greater chance of
developing DRESS or another SCAR from that specific medication.
Dr. Elizabeth Phillips is a
globally renowned severe drug reaction researcher at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She and her
team are uncovering genetic markers that can predict a
patient's likelihood for developing SCARs. They recently discovered
that the gene HLA-A*32:01 can increase a person's chance for
developing DRESS from the commonly prescribed antibiotic
Vancomycin.
Dr. Phillips and her team have also developed genetic tests for
Vancomycin. Although relatively cheap and easy to do, the tests are
not yet widely implemented. With more widespread use, medical
providers could prevent and better diagnose DRESS Syndrome cases.
Before prescribing a medication like Vancomycin, they could weigh
the benefit of receiving it against someone's drug reaction
risk.
"We are entering an era where these decision support tools can
be a tremendous help," says Dr. Phillips. "However, clinical
practice is still behind in implementing these tests effectively in
pharmacogenomics education. In this rapidly changing field, it is
crucial to help doctors, nurses, and pharmacists understand and
make decisions."
Dr. Phillips suggests that to better prevent and manage SCARs,
general medical board certification and CME requirements should
also require pharmacogenetics knowledge.
National DRESS Syndrome Day takes place each year on
July 16. The 2024 theme is "Voices
for DRESS." Among other actions, they will recognize medical
professionals as "DRESS Heroes" and invite patients and medical
experts to share their personal DRESS experiences.
What Is DRESS Syndrome?
DRESS stands for Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic
Symptoms
- A severe, cutaneous adverse reaction to medication. Symptoms
are delayed (2 – 8 weeks) and can occur from taking one of over 50
prescription drugs like antibiotics and anticonvulsants.
- Five prescription drugs account for over 50% of cases and 56%
of reported deaths: Allopurinol, Carbamazepine, Lamotrigine,
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Bactrim) and Vancomycin.
- One in every 1,000 to 10,000 drug exposures will result in
DRESS.
- 10% of people with DRESS will die.
- DRESS usually begins with rash, fever, lymphadenopathy, and
facial swelling; and leads to blood abnormalities and organ injury,
typically of the liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart. It can result in
long-term autoimmune complications.
About The DRESS Syndrome Foundation
The DRESS Syndrome Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based
in Richmond, Virginia. We are a collaborative network of patients,
families, researchers, and physicians dedicated to educating about
severe adverse drug reactions, while advocating for the advancement
of research, treatments, and prevention. We serve patients and
their loved ones worldwide. Learn more at:
DRESSsyndromefoundation.org
Contact: Deanna Lorianni
Communications Director
DRESS Syndrome Foundation 804.307.6703
379880@email4pr.com
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SOURCE DRESS Syndrome Foundation