Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is a life-threatening, rare skin disorder that is most commonly linked to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Both TEN and SJS are caused by a negative reaction to certain drugs, including popular antibiotics, anticonvulsants, NSAIDs, and over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen. Also known as Lyell’s Syndrome, TEN is an extremely serious and debilitating skin condition. In recent years we have learned a lot about both SJS and TEN. While past medical professionals viewed the two as separate conditions, recent studies have uncovered that SJS and TEN are linked and that TEN is a more severe form of SJS. This is a helpful revelation that has given medical professionals a great deal of information helpful in treating it. Unfortunately, both SJS and TEN are often misdiagnosed because their symptoms are quite similar to those of other conditions.

Symptoms of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis  

TEN causes the top layer of the skin to basically detach from the lower layers throughout the entire body. This then causes the skin to peel in sheets, leaving large, raw areas of the body exposed. When these layers of skin are lost, fluids and salts within the body begin to seep out from the raw areas. Individuals with TEN are extremely susceptible to infection, which can be fatal. While each individual may have a different experience, the most common symptoms of TEN include:

• Rash, blisters, or red spots on the skin
• Blisters around or in the mouth, eyes, ears, nose, or genital areas
• Swelling and irritation of the eyelids
• Flu-like symptoms
• Fever
• Discomfort

TEN is a life-threatening condition that may carry the same or similar symptoms as other skin conditions. If you are worried you may have TEN, please contact your doctor right away. 

Facts About Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

To help you gain a better understanding of what, exactly, TEN is, here are a few facts to keep in mind:

• The primary cause of TEN is a negative reaction to medication
• TEN symptoms usually begin to appear one to four weeks from taking the causative drug
• Lesions and sores will appear much deeper than those associated with SJS
• Patients with TEN will usually have elevated white blood counts and a high fever
• Lesions can spread internally and affect the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems

The Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger investigate potential lawsuits and will help you better understand your rights, should you find yourself diagnosed with either SJS or TEN. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact us today.