Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious skin condition that many people have never heard of. SJS is categorized as a type IV hypersensitivity reaction that typically affects the skin and mucous membranes. It is often associated with Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which researchers have recently learned is just a more serious version of SJS. Individuals who have developed SJS will experience less than 10 percent of their body surface area (BSA) affected, whereas those with TEN may see more than 30 percent of the BSA.

Both SJS and TEN are life-threatening, drug-induced reactions that are linked to a handful of common over-the-counter and prescription medications. In most cases, SJS is triggered by a specific medication and results in the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes developing sores and open wounds. SJS can be extremely difficult to spot, namely because its symptoms are very similar to those of other, more common conditions. In its earliest stages, SJS may appear like the flu: headache, aches and pains, coughing, eye redness, sensitivity to light, sore throat, or swelling. Other common symptoms associated with SJS include skin rashes, blisters, purplish or red spots on the skin, and small bumps. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure and schedule an appointment with your physician right away. It is imperative that SJS is caught in its early stages in order for the patient to have a good chance of full recovery.

Risks Associated with SJS

Individuals who take the following drugs may be at a heightened risk of developing SJS or TEN:

• Ibuprofen
• Celebrex
• Children’s Advil
• Daypro
• Dilantin
• Cerebyx
• Feldene
• Indocin
• Motrin
• Relafen
• Toradol
• Vioxx
• Zithromax

One of the most popular drugs on the above list is Dilantin, an anti-seizure medication manufactured by Pfizer. This drug has been definitely linked to SJS and/or TEN, which means individuals who take Dilantin are at an immediate risk of developing the skin condition. Because SJS is caused by an allergic reaction to a drug or medication, it is imperative you discuss any allergies or adverse reactions with your physician. Antibiotics are the number one trigger of SJS, followed by pain relievers, cough and cold medications, NSAIDs, anticonvulsants, and medications used to treat gout.

In addition to the above, individuals who are prone to infections may also be at a heightened risk of developing SJS. Viral infections – such as herpes, pneumonia, HIV, and hepatitis – in particular may precede SJS. Furthermore, it is also common for individuals to have a specific genetic predisposition that can increase the chance of SJS. To learn more about who is at risk of SJS or if you are in need of a McKinney Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer, please give us a call today.