Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a very serious but rare skin condition that many people have probably never heard of. Those who do have some connection to SJS, however, understand just how devastating it can be. In most cases, SJS is caused by an allergic reaction to a certain medication, such as many common over-the-counter drugs and others that are prescribed on a daily basis. SJS is basically a hypersensitivity disorder that affects the mucous membranes and skin. Unfortunately, SJS can affect the elderly and is often deadly if it is not diagnosed and treated right away. This is because SJS often impacts those with weakened immune systems, such as young children and seniors. To ensure SJS is treated correctly, it is important we not only understand what it is, but what some of the most common medications linked to it are and some of the symptoms to keep an eye out for.

Common Medications Linked to SJS

When it comes to the elderly, medication errors and allergies are quite common. This is why it is important to stay on top of your loved one’s health, ensuring they are not taking anything that could cause them harm. SJS can occur as an allergic reaction to any medication, but there are certain drugs it is more commonly linked to than others:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including aspirin, Celebrex, ibuprofen, and naproxen)
• Penicillins
• Anticonvulsants and anti-seizure medications
• Barbiturates

There are literally thousands of drugs that fall within these categories that are administered on a daily basis to those in nursing homes, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. While SJS is rare, when it affects the elderly the results are often deadly.

SJS – What to Look For  

SJS is misdiagnosed or missed altogether more often than we would like to think. This is because many of its symptoms mimic those of other common conditions, such as the flu. If you notice your loved one is coughing and has a fever and sore throat, he or she may have SJS. Other signs to look for include:

• Hives
• A red or purplish rash that spreads
• Blisters around the mouth, eyes, or genitals
• Swollen tongue or face
• Skin discomfort or pain

Although SJS is usually caused by an allergic reaction to a medication, infections are another common cause in both children and the elderly. Infections linked to SJS include:

• Viral infections like the mumps
• Bacterial infections such as diphtheria
• Fungal infections like dermatophytosis
• Protozoal infections such as malaria

Common complications of SJS (especially in the elderly) include:

• Corneal ulcerations
• Blindness
• Esophageal strictures
• Renal failure
• Penile scarring
• Vaginal stenosis
• General scarring

Most SJS victims are treated in burn units, as the skin begins to ‘melt’ off as the disease progresses. To protect your elderly loved one, be on the lookout for the above symptoms and contact a medical professional right away if you suspect your family member has SJS. If the nursing home failed in any way to administer care for your loved one, please contact the Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger and allow us to take on your case.