Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) may not be as well-known to the general public as other conditions, but it is nonetheless deadly. A rare, life-threatening skin condition that affects the mucous membranes and skin, SJS is usually caused by an allergic reaction to a specific medication or an underlying infection. There are literally hundreds of drugs out there that can cause SJS, including Advil, Lamictal, and Dilantin. If left untreated, SJS can lead to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which is even more deadly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), SJS is fatal in 15 percent of cases. This is one of the main reasons why it is so important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you may have SJS. Some of the most common symptoms linked to SJS include:

• Flu-like symptoms at the start
• Inflammation of the mucous membranes
• A painful red or purplish rash that spreads before turning into blisters
• Shedding of the top layer of skin
• Facial or tongue swelling
• Hives

Because SJS often starts out like the flu, it is either misdiagnosed or missed by medical professionals altogether. An early diagnosis is key to making a full recovery and ensuring SJS does not turn into TEN. In some extreme cases, the above symptoms can turn into blindness or deformity, leaving the patient to face a lifelong uphill battle.

What Causes SJS?

There are more than 200 drugs known to be linked to SJS, including the following:

• Anti-gout medications
• Antibiotics
• Anti-seizure medications
• Pain relievers
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Sulfonamides and penicillins

In addition to these commonly prescribed drugs, there are some infections that may contribute to SJS, including:

• Herpes
• Influenza
• HIV
• Diphtheria
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis

SJS has also been linked to radiation therapy and ultraviolet light, which are often used to treat various forms of cancer.

Complications of SJS

If SJS is left untreated, the following complications may occur:

• Secondary skin infection (cellulitis)
• Sepsis
• Eye problems, including blindness
• Damage to internal organs
• Permanent skin damage
• Shock
• Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
• Multiple organ failure
• Pneumonia

50 percent of SJS cases result in TEN, and the other complications mentioned above are also quite common. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with SJS, we encourage you to contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger. Our dangerous drug lawyers are here to advise you on how to proceed and ensure justice is served. Unfortunately, many doctors continue to prescribe the medications that are linked to SJS, putting their patients at serious risk. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, see a doctor right away and stop taking any medications linked to the disease. SJS is a serious health concern that should not be taken lightly. Our lawyers are prepared to hold those who were negligent or acted in poor judgment accountable for the harm they have caused. Please give us a call today to schedule a consultation.