Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
Characterized by inflammation of the skin and the mucous membranes of the body, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a serious type of immune-complex-mediated hypersensitivity (allergic) condition. With a mortality rate ranging from 3% to 15%, SJS is one of three related skin diseases of varying severity, the others being:
- Erythema multiforme (EM): The least severe of the three conditions, EM is noticeable in the form of a classic skin lesion without necessarily demonstrating whole-body symptoms. SJS is a more severe form of EM and is therefore often labeled as erythema multiforme major. EM commonly afflicts children and young adults.
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN): The most severe of the three conditions, TEN is a serious skin disease with a mortality rate of 40%. Denuded skin bares the flesh and leads to serious infection. TEN victims typically die as a result of bacterial or fungal infections.
Stevens Johnson Syndrome Causes
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome can be caused by an allergic reaction to certain drugs. Some of the more common drugs known to cause SJS include antibiotics, anti-convulsants, pain relievers (prescription and over-the-counter) and cocaine. Brand name drugs that can cause SJS development include Bextra (Bextra and SJS), Daypro (Daypro and SJS), Advil (Advil and SJS), Motrin (Motrin and SJS) and Ibuprofen (Ibuprofen and SJS). In addition to drug allergies, most cases of SJS are attributed to infections or illnesses such as pneumonias caused by mycoplasma. Drug allergies and infections are responsible for causing 50% to 75% of all cases of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. The remaining cases are elicited from unknown causes of SJS.
Stevens Johnson Syndrome Symptoms
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome typically begins as a localized rash that can be seen but not felt (macule). Over time, the rash can spread to other parts of the body and begin to form elevated skin lesions (papules) having the appearance of a bull's eye target. Papules can become large to the point of rupture; baring the flesh and leaving it open to infection. SJS can continue to spread throughout the body via the skin or mucous membranes of the lungs, digestive system, eyes or genitals.
Spreading of SJS through the mucous membranes can result in difficulty breathing (if affecting the lungs), difficulty eating or drinking (if affecting the digestive system), difficulty urinating/defecating (if affecting the genitals) and/or blindness (if affecting the eyes). The severity of SJS symptoms varies dependent on the sufferer's level of hypersensitivity and the degree to which SJS has spread throughout the body.
Stevens Johnson Syndrome Treatment
There is no curative treatment for Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Treatment of the disease is therefore focused on management of the symptoms of SJS. The first step towards any attempt at treatment revolves around isolating the cause (when possible). If it is determined that a drug is responsible for patient contracting SJS, stopping usage of the drug will obviously have a positive impact.
One of the most painful and irritating symptoms associated with Stevens Johnson Syndrome is the blistering and peeling of the skin. Denuded skin can result in the spread of infection, so treatment focuses on the management of infection. Topical antiseptics can be used to dress denuded skin and limit infection. Admittance to an intensive care unit or burn ward will provide an appropriate environment through which to avoid further infection.
Corticosteroids are occasionally used to treat inflamed sections of tissue; however, there is a great deal of controversy surrounding use of such a drug because of the fact that it suppresses immune system response, leaving the patient open to bacterial infection issues.
Stevens Johnson Syndrome Legal Rights
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with EM, SJS or TEN, you might be eligible for compensation. The personal injury lawyers of Levin Papantonio, Thomas, Mitchell, Echsner and Proctor are experienced in dealing with large drug companies and obtaining compensation for the victims of the aforementioned skin diseases. Contact their offices at 888-437-7001 today to get more information about your SJS legal rights.