Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. It's usually a reaction to a medication or an infection. Often, it begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters, eventually causing the top layer of the skin to die and shed.

Causes

SJS is typically caused by a hypersensitive reaction to a medication. Some of the most common medications known to cause SJS include antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and anticonvulsants. In some cases, it can also be triggered by an infection, such as herpes simplex virus or HIV.

Symptoms

The initial symptoms of SJS are often flu-like, including fever, sore throat, and fatigue. This is followed by a red or purplish rash that spreads across the body. The rash can blister and cause the skin to shed. Other symptoms can include mouth sores, eye inflammation, and a burning sensation on the skin.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of SJS is usually based on the presence of typical symptoms and a recent history of medication use or infection. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment of SJS typically involves hospitalization, often in an intensive care unit or a burn unit. The first step in treatment is to discontinue the use of the medication that triggered the syndrome. Treatment also focuses on relieving symptoms, preventing infections, and minimizing complications.

Prognosis

The prognosis for SJS varies depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health. With prompt treatment, most people can recover from SJS, but it may take weeks to months for the skin to heal completely. In severe cases, SJS can be life-threatening.

See also

• Toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms
• Erythema multiforme