Update in Diagnosis and Management of Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions: Emerging Therapies and Evolving Presentations

Severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCARs) represent some of the most critical and potentially life-threatening conditions encountered in dermatology. These reactions include Stevens‑Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)—also referred to as Drug-Induced Hypersensitivity Syndrome (DIHS), Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP), and Generalized Bullous Fixed Drug Eruption (GBFDE). All of these are classified as T-cell mediated hypersensitivity reactions. The development of SCARs is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, variations in drug metabolism, and, in some cases, concurrent infections. In this update, I will review the latest advances in the diagnosis and management of SCARs, highlighting emerging patterns of presentation, differential diagnoses, and therapeutic strategies that are impacting clinical practice.