Sulfone Syndrome: A Unique Delayed Type of Drug Hypersensitivity from Dapsone

Abstract

Nowadays, dapsone is more commonly used in some dermatologic and inflammatory conditions other than leprosy. Even though it has excellent therapeutic efficacy, its side effects are of common concern. Although immune mediated drug hypersensitivity is less common, it can be fatal. Sulfone syndrome is a unique presentation that occurs in dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome (DHR). Here, we report on a 22-year-old female who was prescribed one month of dapsone for dermatitis. She developed a generalized maculopapular rash and low-grade fever and observed that her sclera had a yellowish discoloration. This case report demonstrates a unique character of delay-type drug hypersensitivity from dapsone, with the aim of increasing physician awareness when prescribing dapsone.