What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

By Adhrith Vutukuri

MCR Washington

From Unsplash By Curated Lifestyle

Overview

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a serious and rare condition of the skin and mucous characterized by skin which develops rashes, blisters, and usually peels off. It usually starts in response to a medication and presents flu-like symptoms early on. These symptoms are then followed by the painful rash characteristic of this condition. 

Stevens-Johnsons Syndrome typically requires hospitilization and immediate treatment which focuses on treating the underlying cause of the disease, caring for wounds, and controlling pain. Unfortunately, it can take weeks to months for a patient to fully recover.

Causes

As mentioned previously, the most common cause of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is an adverse reaction to a medication. 

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome can be cause by a variety of medication, but some common drugs known to cause this condition include:

• Anti-gout medications, such as allopurinol

• Anticonvulsants

• Medications to treat seizures and mental illness (anticonvulsants and antipsychotics)

• Antibacterial sulfonamides (including sulfasalazine)

• Nevirapine (Viramune, Viramune XR)

• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve)

• Antibiotics

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome can also be caused due to infection. In fact, in children, a simple cold or a flu may cause this syndrome. 

Symptoms

Early on, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome may cause flu-like symptoms like a cough, fever, or joint pain. A few days later, a skin rash may appear in parts of the body. Other symptoms characteristic of this syndrome include blisters on the skin, mouth, eyes, nose and genitals; shedding skin after the blisters form; unexplained pain on the skin; and swelling of the mouth, lips, throat, tongue or face. 

More severe complications of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome include: 

• Dehydration due certain areas of the skin losing fluid and due to sores in the moth which make fluid intake difficult.  

• Blood infection (sepsis) can occur when bacteria from an infection enter the bloodstream  Sepsis occurs when bacteria from an infection enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. This can cause a patients body to enter a state of shcok and may even cause life-threatening organ failures.  

• The rash caused by Stevens-Johnson syndrome can lead symptoms such as eye inflammation, dry eye and light sensitivity. In severe cases, it can lead to visual impairment and, rarely, blindness.

• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome may lead to an emergency situation in which the lungs can't get enough oxygen into the blood.

• When a patients skin grows back following Stevens-Johnson syndrome it may have bumps, unusual coloring, or scars. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a rare but serious medical condition that requires fast recognition and treatment. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and risk factors is critical for early intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes. By raising awareness and prioritizing patient education, healthcare providers can help reduce the risks associated with this syndrome and ensure those affected receive the care and support they need for recovery.