Stevens Johnson Syndrome, Erythema Multiforme, and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Information

Information provided by Stevens Johnson Syndrome Lawyers at Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP

Some of the most feared complications of drug therapy are the exfoliative skin disorders of erythema multiforme (EM), Stevens Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Approximately 50% of cases among all ages are caused by drugs, and the cause of both SJS and TEN in adults is primarily drug related. This knowledge has increased the likelihood of Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuits, as well as lawsuits for TEN and EM.

EM is a type of hypersensitivity or allergic reaction which occurs in response to medications, infections or illness. Antibiotics, seizure medications, and certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, have been most commonly associated with the development of these conditions. The disorder seems to involve damage to the blood vessels of the skin with later damage to skin tissues. It usually starts with a rash and develops into blisters, and mucous membrane involvement (eyes, mouth, respiratory and GI tract, genitals and anus). Over 90 percent of erythema multiforme cases are associated with infections in children and young adults.

SJS and TEN are more severe versions of EM where the skin diseases progress into eruptions resembling burns and then epidermal (skin) loss. Both SJS and TEN usually begin with a fever, sore throat, cough and burning eyes for 1 to 3 days, followed by the rash. Nearly 90 percent of TEN reactions involve the mucous membranes and almost 85 percent have conjunctivitis or eye lesions.

Symptoms of erythema multiforme, Stevens Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolosys begin with a sudden onset of skin lesions, usually on the legs, arms, palms, hands or feet. They often involve the face or lips, with the trunk usually not involved. Itching may be present, with fever and a general ill feeling with aching joints. Additional symptoms include vision abnormalities, dry or bloodshot eyes, eye burning, itching and discharge and mouth sores.

Mortality rates vary from 25 to 80 percent, dependent on age and the extent of skin loss. However, one of the most frequent causes of death is sepsis (a systemic infection caused by losing the protection of your skin). Females are about twice as likely to develop TEN than males.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome side effects and other complications of these diseases are permanent skin damage and scarring, inflammation of the lungs, heart, kidney or liver, a secondary skin infection and loss of body fluids which could cause shock.

If you or a loved one was injured after using a drug that caused Stevens Johnson Syndrome, you may have grounds for an Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuit; please contact a Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawyer at our law firm today for a free consultation. We can also assist victims of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) and Erythema Multiforme (EM).