The majority of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) cases are caused by an allergic reaction to a particular medication. However, there are certain risk factors that may contribute to the development of the rare skin condition. SJS is one of the most horrible diseases out there. In many cases, it can create a life-threatening ordeal for its victims, often children. In order to make a full recovery from SJS, it is imperative the condition is caught early on. SJS is a rare and unpredictable skin condition that seemingly comes out of nowhere for most. Unfortunately, there is no test that can help predict who is at risk of developing it.

There are a handful of factors that may increase an individual’s chance of developing SJS, including:

• Existing medical conditions – If you have an existing medical condition such as a viral infection, diseases that decrease immunity, HIV, or systemic lupus erythematosus, you may be at a higher risk of developing SJS. Individuals with HIV are approximately 100 times more likely to develop SJS than the general public.
• A weakened immune system – If you have a compromised immune system, you may have an increased risk of SJS. There are numerous reasons your immune system may be weak, such as an organ transplant, HIV/AIDS, or an autoimmune disease.
• A past history of SJS – Individuals who have already had SJS or have an immediate family member that has dealt with the condition may be susceptible to developing SJS.
• Genetics – If you carry the gene HLA-B12, you may have a higher chance of developing SJS than those who do not. This is particularly the case if you also take drugs to treat seizures, gout, or mental illness. Individuals of Chinese, Southeast Asian, or Indian descent are more likely to carry the HLA-B12 gene.

As mentioned, people who are diagnosed with SJS typically develop it because of a reaction to a specific medication. When this happens, it can lead to the top layer of skin shedding. If left untreated or if the condition has worsened, it can lead to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which is a more deadly form of SJS.

Although not always deadly, SJS is extremely painful and can result in a series of long-term health problems, including blindness. This condition requires immediate medical attention in order to be properly treated. The most common symptoms of SJS include:

• Widespread skin pain
• Blisters on the skin and mucous membrane
• Hives
• Tongue swelling
• A red or purple skin rash
• Shedding of the skin
• High fever
• Nausea
• Flu-like symptoms

Because SJS can mimic the flu, it is often misdiagnosed. If you or a loved one had SJS and your doctor missed it, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today.