What are the suspected signs and symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome?

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a serious adverse reaction of the skin and mucous membranes. Signs and symptoms include blisters, rash and skin pain.

How do you diagnose SJS?

Doctors often can identify Stevens-Johnson syndrome based on your medical history, including a review of your current and recently stopped medications, and a physical exam. Skin biopsy. To confirm the diagnosis, and rule out other possible causes, your doctor removes a sample of skin for laboratory testing (biopsy).

Where does SJS rash start?

These skin symptoms usually begin on the face and chest, and then spread to other parts of the body. The percentage of body surface area affected can vary significantly from person to person. When skin detachment occurs on less than 10% of the body surface, the condition is classified as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS).

How long does SJS take to develop?

The typical clinical course of SJS begins within 8 weeks (usually 4 to 30 days) following the first exposure to the causative agent. Only in very rare cases where an inadvertent rechallenge occurs do symptoms appear within hours.

How quickly does Stevens-Johnson progress?

Each person’s experience with Stevens-Johnson syndrome can be different. Skin can regrow in a matter of weeks, but recovery can take months if symptoms are severe. Some long-term reactions may develop, including: Skin: dryness, itching, change in skin color.

Which antibiotic causes Steven Johnson Syndrome?

Antibiotics are the most common cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, followed by analgesics, cough and cold medication, NSAIDs, psycho-epileptics, and antigout drugs. Of antibiotics, penicillins and sulfa drugs are prominent culprits; ciprofloxacin has also been reported.

How quickly does SJS progress?

Is SJS permanent?

If untreated, these disorders can cause significant, disabling symptoms and even death. Some individuals who survive the initial, acute episode of SJS or TEN may experience severe, chronic symptoms.

How long does it take for Steven Johnson syndrome to develop?

Clinical Presentation. The typical clinical course of SJS begins within 8 weeks (usually 4 to 30 days) following the first exposure to the causative agent. Only in very rare cases where an inadvertent rechallenge occurs do symptoms appear within hours.

What is the prognosis of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)?

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Prognosis Lesions in Stevens-Johnson syndrome usually heal in two weeks. Most individuals with SJS recover from the disease without any complications if properly managed. Mild forms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome with 10% body surface area affectation have a low mortality rate of less than 5%.

What is the cause of Stevens Johnson syndrome?

Infectious causes. Infections that can cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome include: Herpes virus (herpes simplex or herpes zoster) Pneumonia. HIV. Hepatitis A.

What is ten skin disease?

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a potentially life-threatening skin disorder which causes tender bumps under the skin (erythema), skin cell death (necrosis), and blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. TEN is not linked to any specific ethnicity or gender.

What is the treatment for Steven Johnson syndrome?

Medications used in the treatment of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include: Pain medication to reduce discomfort. Medication to reduce inflammation of the eyes and mucous membranes (topical steroids). Antibiotics to control infection, when needed.