Stevens Jhonson Syndrome
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are serious skin conditions that cause your skin to develop rashes, blisters, and then peel. Your mucus membranes, including your eyes, genitalia and mouth, are also affected.
Causes of Stevens Jhonson Syndrome
Causes of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include the following
Allergic reaction to a medication (most cases of SJS and almost all cases of TEN).
Infections, like mycoplasma pneumonia, herpes and hepatitis A.
Vaccinations.
Graft-versus-host disease.
Symptoms of Stevens Jhonson Syndrome
Skin pain.
Fever.
Body aches.
Red rash or red blotches on your skin.
Cough.
Blisters and sores on the skin and on mucus membranes of the mouth, throat, eyes, genitals and anus.
Peeling skin.
Drooling (because closing the mouth is painful).
Eyes sealed shut (due to blisters and swelling).
Painful urination (due to blistered mucus membranes).
Diagnosis of Stevens Jhonson Syndrome
Healthcare providers diagnose SJS and TEN:
By looking at the skin and mucous membranes affected (typically at least two mucous membranes are affected).
By your pain level.
By how fast your skin has been affected.
By how much of your skin has been affected.
By taking a skin biopsy.
Treatment of Stevens Jhonson Syndrome
Treatments for Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:
Stopping the medication that has caused the problem.
Replacing electrolytes with intravenous (IV) fluids.
Using non-adhesive dressings on the affected skin.
Using high-calorie food, possibly by tube-feeding, to promote healing.
Using antibiotics when needed to prevent infection.
Providing pain relief medications.
Treating you in a hospital, possibly even in an intensive care or burn unit.
Using specialist teams from dermatology and ophthalmology (if your eyes are affected).
In some cases, treating you with IV immunoglobulin, cyclosporine, IV steroids, or amniotic membrane grafts (for your eyes).