Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that usually leads to severe reactions such as rashes, blisters, and sores on various parts of the body. In many cases, these reactions can progress into third-degree burn-like symptoms. It’s safe to say that most people have never heard of SJS, but recently we have seen a handful of cases in the news.

If you’ve been diagnosed with SJS, it is imperative you contact a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer, as you may be able to take legal action. Because SJS is so rare and carries symptoms similar to other, more common conditions, it is often misdiagnosed and mistreated. Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists have an obligation to ensure their patient’s well-being is a top priority.

What Causes SJS?

SJS can be the result of an allergic reaction to a medication or an infection. Some of the infections that may cause SJS include:

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

Although these infections may lead to SJS, the more likely culprit is a medication. Some of the drugs associated with SJS include:

• Penicillins and sulfonamides (used to treat infections)
• Anti-gout medications
• Anticonvulsants
• Tamiflu and Lamictal
• Cox-2 inhibitors
• Sedatives
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Aspirin
  • Ibuprofen
  • Motrin

Steps to Take Following an SJS Diagnosis

It is of the utmost importance that SJS is caught early on. As the disease progresses, the symptoms become more life-threatening. In many cases, SJS turns into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which is even more deadly than SJS.

Before we look at the more severe symptoms of SJS, here is a list of the initial signs you may have the skin condition:

• Blisters and rashes all over the skin
• Flu-like symptoms (this is the main reason SJS is so difficult to diagnose)
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Nausea
• Blisters or lesions on the mucous membranes (genitals, mouth, nose, and eyes)
• Shedding of the skin

If you have been exposed to any of the known risk factors of SJS and have noticed the above symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. The longer you wait, the more difficult it is to treat the condition. If the underlying cause of SJS is a drug reaction, stop taking the medication right away. If it is caused by an infection, treating SJS may start with oral or topical corticosteroids that can reduce the rash and other symptoms.

To learn more about filing an SJS lawsuit, give us a call today and schedule an appointment to discuss your case. 

When a medication is prescribed that knowingly may cause SJS, there should be recourse. Please contact a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer at Wormington & Bollinger today if you have been diagnosed with SJS.