Stevens Johnson Syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a severe, life-threatening medical condition often caused by an allergic reaction to pharmaceutical and over-the-counter drugs, including Bextra, Trileptal, Children’s Advair, Tylenol, Actos, and Rezulin. Other drugs associated with causing Stevens-Johnson syndrome include penicillin-based antibiotic drugs, such as nevirapine.

SJS is a disorder that affects the mucus membranes and skin. Early SJS signs include flu-like symptoms shortly followed by the appearance of painful red and purple rashes and blisters, which cause the upper layer of the dermis (skin) to die and shed.

In addition, SJS affects the mucus membranes throughout the body and in many organs, including the eyes and respiratory system. This painful condition has a high morbidity and fatality rate.

Stevens - Johnson syndrome Symptoms

The early symptoms associated with SJS may be similar to respiratory infections and diseases. These symptoms include, cough with sputum (lung, trachea, bronchi secretions and mucus), headache, and general malaise. As the condition worsens, painful rashes and lesions appear on large areas of the body.

Other common Stevens –Johnson syndrome symptoms include:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Body aches/chills

Blisters may also form across the body and on or in the nose, mouth, eyes, and genitals. Some people also experience hair and nail loss. In addition, skin may peel away in sheets leaving tender, exposed flesh susceptible to infection. Many people develop severe, fatal infections from open sores, wounds, and exposed skin.

Symptoms of drug-induced SJS caused by common over-the-counter and prescription medications (Bextra, Trileptal, Children’s Advair, Tylenol, Actos, and Rezulin) may take nearly two weeks to appear from the initial drug dose.

Stevens - Johnson syndrome Diagnosis

Diagnosing Stevens-Johnson syndrome involves skin biopsy and complete review of symptoms and medical history. The source of the allergic reaction is also identified and managed. Most often, prescription and over-the-counter drugs, including Bextra, Trileptal, Children’s Advair, Tylenol, Actos, and Rezulin, cause SJS.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome Treatment

Treating SJS involves admitting a patient to and intensive care unit or specialized burn unit to treat skin blisters and ruptures.

Antibiotics may be administered to treat infections or super infections. Meticulous oral hygiene is important to prevent a super-infection. An ophthalmologist may also be involved in treating an SJS patient to avoid eye lesions and permanent eye and vision damage. Topical and oral anti-inflammatory medication (corticosteroids) may also be prescribed to treat SJS.

SJS caused by over-the-counter and prescription drugs can be a devastating experience for an SJS patient and his or her family. In many cases, victims of drug-induced SJS are entitled to receive compensation for their condition.

An attorney can assist a victim and a victim’s family in receiving compensation for emotional stress, to cover medical bills and expenses, and punitive damages.