Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a serious skin condition that causes severe skin reactions, such as rashes and blisters. If it is not properly treated or caught in its early stages, it can progress into third degree-like burns or even Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). While in the past it was thought that both SJS and TEN were rare, we are now learning that these types of cases are quite common. The problem with SJS is that it is extremely difficult to diagnose, namely because many of the symptoms mimic those of other conditions. If SJS is not properly diagnosed and caught early on, it could progress very quickly and cause serious, irreparable damage. We have learned a lot about SJS in recent years, which is why we are seeing more and more cases of these devastating skin conditions occur.

It is important for those affected by SJS to not only understand their diagnosis, but what to expect in the coming days, weeks, and months. There is still a general lack of awareness surrounding SJS, but we are working hard to change that. We have seen what an impact an SJS diagnosis can have on an individual and their loved ones, especially if that diagnosis came too late. It is quite common for SJS symptoms to be overlooked, leading to the condition to progress and sometimes turn fatal.

What You Need to Know

SJS affects males twice as much as females, and the young more prevalently than the old. The most common cause of SJS is an allergic reaction to a specific medication or drug, which may include:

• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), including ibuprofen
• Antibiotics such as Penicillin, Amoxicillin, and Ampicillin
• Anti-seizure medications like Tegretol, Dilantin, and Depakote
• Sedatives such as Phenobarbital
• Drugs used to treat gout, such as Allopurinol
• Drugs used to treat viral and fungal illnesses, such as Tamiflu and Lamictal
• Herbal supplements that include ginseng
• Tylenol

It is important to note that not everyone who takes these drugs will develop SJS/TEN. However, certain individuals are at a heightened risk of developing the condition. Individuals who have compromised or weak immune systems, including the elderly, children, and HIV patients, are at a higher risk than others. Some of the complications associated with SJS include:

• Pneumonia
• Myocarditis
• Hepatitis
• Kidney failure
• Blindness
• Sepsis
• Blood in urine
• Death

We have seen an increasing number of SJS patients file lawsuits in recent years, and you may be able to do the same. If your doctor misdiagnosed SJS or failed to diagnose the symptoms, resulting in the condition worsening, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today and learn about your rights to file a lawsuit.