Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a life-threatening skin condition that is commonly caused by an adverse reaction to many over-the-counter and prescription medications. This rare condition affects the skin and mucous membranes, which can result in the loss of more than 10 percent of the outer layer of skin. If left untreated, SJS can develop into Toxic-Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more serious condition with a higher mortality rate. The most common medications that lead to SJS include antibiotics, NSAIDs, and anti-seizure medications. Patients can display symptoms anywhere from one week to two months after taking the medicine. In some rare instances, SJS can be caused by infection, vaccinations, or diseases that target certain organs or the whole body.

SJS is extremely difficult to diagnose because it displays many symptoms similar to other conditions. However, in order for a patient to fully recover, it is imperative SJS is diagnosed in its early states. Although only 1.5 to 1.9 cases occur per million people, the mortality rate is nearly 50 percent for TEN and 9 percent for SJS. Perhaps the most tell-tale sign of a patient with SJS is varying degrees of detachment of the epidermis, which leads to open wounds that may appear like burns. Because of the nature of the wounds associated with SJS and TEN, most patients are referred to a burn unit for treatment. This is done in order to focus on the wound and dressing management. Unfortunately, research indicates that in many cases the referral of patients with SJS or TEN to a burn unit were delayed, which can have a huge impact on the odds of recovery.

Managing SJS

As mentioned, most SJS patients are treated in burn units or intensive care units. While there is no specific treatment for SJS, the majority of patients are treated based on their individual symptoms. Severe fluid loss is one of the biggest concerns with SJS patients, which is why paramedics, doctors, and nurses alike are advised to take extra care and refer patients to special burn units in most cases. Once admitted, special attention should be given to the airway and pain control should be a top priority, in addition to fluid replacement.

SJS patients should also be under careful surveillance, as many are at risk of infection and the disease spreading. It is important to try and halt the disease process, while treating the wounds and making sure the patient’s pain is under control at the same time. This is a very complicated disease that does not come with one straightforward treatment plan. While we’ve learned a lot about SJS and TEN in recent years, there is still a lot we do not know. One of the biggest mistakes doctors make is failure to diagnose or recognize the early signs of SJS – which is a life or death situation.

If your doctor missed an SJS diagnosis, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today. Our experienced SJS lawyers have handled many similar cases and are prepared to meet with you today and do the same.