Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that many people have never heard of. However, this serious disorder can develop suddenly, confusing both the patient and doctor alike. This is because the initial symptoms of SJS mimic those of the flu and other common, less serious conditions. When SJS first arises, the patient may have a fever and other flu-like symptoms. In the coming days and weeks, the patient may start to notice a painful red or purplish rash on their skin that spreads and turns into blisters. As the condition worsens, the symptoms may become unbearable. This is why it is critical for the patient to seek medical attention right away.

Typically, SJS is caused by an allergic reaction to a specific drug or medication. If left untreated, not only will the patient be in danger, but other related disorders may develop. One of the diseases most commonly linked to SJS is Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

The purpose of today’s blog is to gain a better understanding of SJS and the impact it can have. We’re going to discuss the most common causes of SJS and the disorders related to SJS. If your doctor misdiagnoses you or misses your symptoms and you get sick as a result, you may be able to take legal action. Medical malpractice is unfortunately common in the United States, resulting in anywhere from 250,000 to 440,000 preventable deaths each year. Sadly, medical errors are the third-leading cause of death in the U.S., behind only heart disease and cancer. Because SJS is difficult to diagnose, many doctors often overlook it. If your doctor failed to diagnose SJS accurately, contact our Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers today. We offer free consultations and can go over your case to see if you have the right to take legal action.

Understanding Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

As Stevens-Johnson Syndrome gets worse, the patient may experience the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Cough
• Painful red or purplish rash
• Blisters
• Sores on the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, eyes, genitals, and anus
• Skin that peels off in sheets
• A “skin melting off” sensation
• Drooling
• Swollen eyes
• Eyes sealed shut
• Pain with urination

Many SJS patients must receive treatment at local burn centers, especially extreme cases and those that went undiagnosed. The initial symptoms of the illness are soon followed by a rash and then peeling, leaving the patient’s skin exposed and extremely tender. This is why ICUs and burn units often care for SJS and TEN patients. If you experience any of the above after taking a particular medication, or if you have an infection, seek medical attention right away. The sooner you diagnose and treat SJS, the better. There are a series of tests that can be performed to ensure the right diagnosis is made.

What Causes SJS?

You’ve probably picked up on the fact that SJS is unlike many other conditions. Because so many different medications and infections cause it, it can be challenging to diagnose. Typically, multiple factors contribute to the development of the condition, including genes, environmental factors, and the person’s immune system. Some of the medications that cause SJS include:

• Antibiotics, including Penicillin, Amoxicillin, Ampicillin
• Sulfa drugs
• Drugs used to treat acne, like Tetracycline and Accutane
• NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen
• Anti-seizure medications
• Sedatives such as Phenobarbital
• Anti-gout medications
• Herbal supplements that include ginseng
• Lamictal, Tamiflu, and other medicines used to treat viral and fungal illnesses

Other causes of SJS and TEN include:

• Viral infection (specifically in children)
  • Mumps
  • Flu
  • Herpes-simplex virus
  • Coxsackievirus
  • Epstein-Barr virus
• HIV
• Bacterial infections

Risk Factors

In addition to the above, certain risk factors may lead to SJS and TEN, including:

• Individuals with an HIV infection
• A compromised immune system
• A family history of SJS
• A personal history of SJS
• The HLA-B1502 gene (typically families of Chinese, Southeast Asian, or Indian descent are more likely to carry this gene)

Other Conditions Linked to SJS

TEN is the most common disorder related to SJS. However, there are a handful of other conditions that have been linked to the rare skin disorder:

• Erythema multiforme (EM) – The term for a group of hypersensitivity disorders.
• Autoimmune blistering disorders – These types of disorders may develop when the body mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing the skin to blister and peel.
• Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) – This is a rare disorder that is the product of a toxin from a staph infection.
• Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome
• Toxic shock syndrome

Treatment for these conditions will vary depending on the individual. As with any disease, the sooner you catch it, the better. If your doctor made an error or was negligent in your care, you may be able to file a lawsuit. Contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today for more information.

SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Allergic reactions to drugs or infections cause both Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. You may be wondering why they have such different names if they are the same. It may help to look at SJS and TEN as the same condition but on opposite ends of the spectrum. All cases of TEN start as SJS, if that helps. When SJS is left untreated or misdiagnosed, there is a good chance it will turn into TEN. Here are a few additional facts about SJS and TEN:

• TEN patients may also lose their hair and nails
• Medications cause an estimated 75 percent of SJS and TEN cases
• A higher percentage of adults are diagnosed with SJS than children
• The drugs most commonly linked to SJS are:
  • Antibacterial sulfa drugs
  • Anti-epileptic drugs
  • Drugs used to treat kidney stones
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Anti-HIV drugs
• SJS infects about 10 percent of the skin
• TEN infects over 30 percent of the skin’s surface

Both SJS and TEN may carry certain complications

These complications include but are not limited to, the following:

• Cellulitis (a secondary skin infection)
• Sepsis
• Eye problems
• Long problems
• Permanent skin damage 

SJS and TEN may be deadly if ignored. To learn if you have a case, or if you have questions about filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in McKinney, contact Wormington & Bollinger today.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that can develop as the result of an allergic reaction to a medication or, in some cases, an infection. Although this condition only affects an estimated 500 people each year, if left untreated, it can be deadly. SJS is a life-threatening reaction that most people are unfamiliar with. However, we have seen it make headlines recently, such as this story involving a Hollywood teenager whose skin “melted off” thanks to SJS. When it comes to SJS, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are essential.  Many healthcare specialists overlook or misdiagnose SJS because it is such a rare condition. When this happens, it could put the patient in grave danger.

If you are diagnosed with SJS, and you believe your doctor or healthcare provider made an error or was negligent in your care, contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today. We have extensive experience handling these types of cases and are prepared to do the same for you. We understand how stressful and daunting SJS can be and are here to advise you in any way we can. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, you may be able to take legal action and file a lawsuit. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your medical malpractice suit.

Today’s blog is going to look at the timeline of SJS, from diagnosis to recovery. Please keep in mind that every patient is different. Our goal is to educate you about what to expect with SJS. We want to help you understand how the disease progresses and what you can do to stop it. If you have any questions about this or would like to learn more, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today.

What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

Before we go over the timeline of the condition, let’s talk about what SJS really is. As mentioned, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a relatively rare skin condition. Often caused by an allergic reaction to over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications, SJS affects the skin and mucous membranes throughout the body. The severity of the condition will depend on the individual and how severe of a case it is. In many cases, the patient’s skin will start to blister and eventually peel off in sheets. This is one of the most telling signs that SJS is present.

What Are the Signs of SJS?

In addition to blistering skin that may peel off in sheets, the following are early signs of SJS:

• Large red or purple sores
• Painful mouth sores that make it difficult to breathe or swallow
• Blisters all over the body, namely on the mucous membranes of the skin, eyes, or genitals
• Skin that looks sunburnt on the top layer
• Flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, body aches, and a cough
• Widespread red rash
• Drooling
• Eyes sealed shut from swelling and blisters

If you notice any of the above, seek medical attention immediately. The sooner you diagnose SJS, the better.

What drugs are linked to SJS?

Infections can cause SJS, but the most common cause is an allergic reaction to a drug or medication. The following are some of the types of medications linked to SJS:

• Penicillin, amoxicillin, and other antibiotics
• Sulfa drugs
• Acne medications, including Accutane and Tetracycline
• Anti-gout medications
• Anti-seizure medications
• Herbal supplements containing Ginseng
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Specific drugs include:

• Advil (ibuprofen)
• Celebrex
• Clinoril
• Dilantin
• Cerebyx
• Lamictal
• Motrin
• Vioxx
• Zithromax

If you’ve taken any of the above and have noticed any of the common SJS symptoms listed above, contact your doctor right away. 

How SJS Develops 

Now that we have a better understanding of what SJS is, and some of the drugs most commonly linked to it, let’s go over the timeline of how the condition develops. One of the main points we want to make is that SJS can take anywhere from one week to two months after you take the medication to develop. This can make it very difficult to diagnose and pinpoint the root cause. Several different tests can help diagnose SJS in its early stages, including:

• A physical examination that assesses the skin and mucous membranes that have been affected
• Skin biopsy
• Skin or oral culture
• Imaging tests
• Blood tests

All of these tests aim to help your doctor understand your condition and what may be causing it. The skin culture and blood tests, specifically, can confirm an infection, which is another common cause of SJS.

Timeline

Here is a general timeline of how the disease develops and progresses:

• You notice flu-like symptoms, a red rash, or blisters anywhere from one week to two months after taking a medication
• Your doctor performs a physical examination
• Your doctor orders test for the suspected diagnosis of SJS
  • It may take several days or up to a week for the test results to come in, depending on the person and the type of tests ordered
• Once diagnosed, treatment will depend on the severity of the condition
  • SJS typically develops as a rash covering 10 percent of the body
  • Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is a more severe version of SJS that can impact 30 percent of the body. This condition is far more deadly than SJS.
• Patients may spend anywhere from two to four weeks in the hospital burn unit receiving treatment but could spend more than a year recovering from the condition
  • The younger and healthier the patient, the faster the recovery
• In some cases, additional complications may occur, such as:
  • Pneumonia
  • Sepsis
  • Scars where the skin peeled
  • Difficulty seeing
  • Lasting infection in the gums and mouth
  • Lung problems

SJS can be deadly. If you’ve been diagnosed and believe your doctor acted negligently in regard to your care or treatment, contact a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer at Wormington & Bollinger today. We offer free consultations and are here to answer your questions today. We understand how stressful this condition can be, primarily if those tasked with your care did not fulfill their duty. Give us a call today and let us help you.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that isn’t very well known. However, the disease has made headlines in recent months. One disturbing story involves a North Hollywood high school student whose skin “melted off” after taking a drug called Lamictal. One of the most common symptoms of advanced cases of SJS is when the skin blisters, bubbles, and eventually peels off, as was the case with 14-year-old Ashley Silverman. Lamictal happens to be one of the drugs most commonly linked to SJS. An anti-epileptic medication, or an anticonvulsant, Lamictal is often prescribed by mental health service providers to help with mood disorders, manic depression, bipolar disorder, as well as epileptic seizures. Unfortunately, the drug is often over-prescribed or prescribed without consideration of other outside factors.

As experienced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers, we understand how devastating these types of cases can be. SJS is a severe skin condition that can be fatal if left untreated. In some cases, SJS can turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more deadly disease. Although SJS and TEN were once thought to be different conditions, the healthcare industry now considers them the same condition of varying degrees. If you have taken Lamictal and noticed any of the symptoms we will discuss below, seek medical attention right away. The key to treating SJS is early diagnosis and treatment. This condition is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether because it is so rare. If this was the case for you, contact our Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers and let us get started on your case.

Today we are going to take a closer look at one of the most disturbing SJS cases to hit the news lately. We will also go over some common SJS symptoms, risk factors, and what you can do if you’ve been diagnosed with SJS. 

SJS in the News

14-year-old North Hollywood high school freshman Ashley Silverman nearly died from side effects of taking the prescription drug Lamictal. Like many teenagers, Silverman had been experiencing mood swings. She eventually went to a Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) counselor, who recommended a North Hills therapist at a non-profit clinic. It was there that a psychiatrist prescribed Lamictal to help “stabilize” her mood swings.

Lamictal’s primary purpose is not to treat mood swings, but rather seizures, epilepsy, and bipolar disorder in individuals over the age of 16. The drug comes with a strict Food and Drug Administration (FDA) black box warning that cautions: ” Serious rashes requiring hospitalization and discontinuation of treatment are associated with the use of Lamictal.” These warnings include the risk of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

But Silverman was never told of these potential side effects when given Lamictal for her teenage mood swings by a registered psychiatrist. And while the family has been transparent about not doing their own research on the drug, the psychiatrist “assured them it was safe.” Just two weeks after starting the prescription, Silverman noticed a red rash on her face. In the days to follow, she would complain of a headache and fever that didn’t break 104 degrees for two days. After going to the emergency room with no luck, Silverman was transferred to Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles. It was there that the condition began to worsen, causing more spots on her face, neck, and chest. Soon thereafter, the skin started to “bubble” along with a burning sensation. Disoriented and scared, Silverman was eventually diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and, once again, transferred – this time to a burn unit.

Thankfully, Silverman recovered. But not everyone is so lucky. The young teen and her family want others to understand the dangers of taking certain prescription drugs and, with this, the importance of being aware of any potential risks. While Lamictal has been known to help treat numerous conditions, it also carries inherent dangers that should not be taken lightly.

Symptoms of SJS

There are many reasons why SJS is challenging to diagnose, namely that its initial symptoms mimic those of other illnesses. Here is a look at the most common symptoms of SJS:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Fever
• Cough
• Body aches
• Unexplained skin pain all over the body
• A reddish or purplish skin rash that spreads after one to three days
• Blisters on the skin
• Blisters on the mucous membranes around the mouth, nose, eyes, and genitals
• Drooling
• Eyes sealed shut from blisters and swelling
• Painful urination

If you experience any of the above, see a doctor right away. These symptoms often get worse very quickly and require immediate attention and treatment. The longer SJS is left undiagnosed, the more difficult it is to recover from.

Diagnosing and Treating SJS

As was the case for Ashley Silverman, many SJS patients are treated in burn units. Once the condition is diagnosed correctly, the physician will decide what treatment is best. In the majority of cases, admittance to a burn center’s intensive care unit is the best course of action. Some of the ways we diagnose SJS include:

• Physical examination
• Examine the affected skin
• Skin biopsy
• Skin or oral culture
• Imaging tests
• Blood tests

All of the above will help your doctor determine if your symptoms are in line with SJS. If treatment is delayed, or your doctor misdiagnosis your condition, you may have a medical malpractice lawsuit on your hands. To learn more about your rights or to see if you have a case, contact our McKinney Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawyers today. SJS is a severe condition that can have a long-lasting impact on a person’s life. If your doctor missed your initial symptoms, or if you were prescribed a medication like Lamictal without being told of its potential side effects, contact us today. Cases like Ashley Silverman are unfortunately common and should carry some recourse for those responsible. Drugs like Lamictal can help treat many conditions, but they also come with harmful side effects that patients are often in the dark about. To schedule your free consultation, give us a call today.

Blistering skin, lesions, a red-purplish rash – these are all symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), a serious skin condition. SJS is a relatively rare disease that usually occurs as a result of an adverse reaction to a specific medication and can be deadly. While the symptoms may start as minor annoyances, they can quickly worsen and progress to third-degree burn-like severity. If left untreated or misdiagnosed, SJS can turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more deadly form of the condition. Although it was once thought that SJS and TEN were different conditions, we now know they are versions of the same disease. 

To stop SJS from continuing, your symptoms must be treated quickly. As SJS progresses, several different things can happen. For instance, the original flu-like symptoms common with the disease will dissipate as ulcers start to form on the mucous membranes of the mouth, genitals, or lips. This means that the disease is getting worse and needs immediate attention.  

SJS was once thought to be quite rare, yet we are now learning the condition has been widely misdiagnosed for many years. Because of this, more and more people are coming forward filing medical malpractice lawsuits against those responsible for the misdiagnosis. At Wormington & Bollinger, our McKinney Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers understand just how devastating an SJS diagnosis is. If you have lost a loved one to SJS, or if you have recovered from the condition yourself, but your doctor misdiagnosed you, give us a call. We offer free consultations and are here to ensure justice is served. 

Today we are going to look at what tests can be done to diagnose SJS. This is an important topic because the skin condition is so often overlooked. With the right tests, doctors will be able to ensure you get the treatment you need to bounce back from SJS. 

What Causes Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

Typically, SJS is either a side effect of or an adverse reaction to the following:

● Antibiotics 

● Anticonvulsants and other anti-seizure medications

● Barbiturates 

● Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

● Sulfa-containing drugs

● Viral infections

● Bacterial infections

● HIV

● Some malignant diseases 

● Hepatitis

● Herpes simplex or herpes zoster

● Typhoid 

● Diphtheria 

● Influenza 

Furthermore, some of the most common medications that cause SJS are:

● Aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

● Penicillin used to treat infections

● Sulfonamides used to treat infections 

● Anti-gout medications 

● Dilantin and other seizure medications 

● Herbal supplements containing ginseng 

As you can see, SJS can stem from many different sources. It is a confusing disease that many people are unfamiliar with, unless, of course, you or someone you know has been diagnosed with SJS. Because so many common medications and illnesses are linked to SJS, it can be difficult to understand the “why me?” 

SJS symptoms

SJS begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, cough, and nausea. As the disease progresses, patients may experience the following:

● Red or purplish rash

● Blisters or red lesions on the skin

● Blisters in the mouth, eyes, ears, nose, or genitals 

● Swelling of the eyelids 

● Ulceration of blisters

● Shedding of the skin 

While everyone is at risk of developing SJS, individuals who have been exposed to the causes of SJS are more susceptible. The majority of SJS cases either involve adults younger than 30, children, or the elderly. Sadly, children are the most likely to get SJS. If you have any of the above symptoms and have not yet seen a medical professional, do so immediately. The sooner you are diagnosed and treated, the better your chance of making a full recovery and preventing the condition from turning into TEN.  

Diagnosing Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Some several different tests and actions can be performed to properly diagnose SJS. Typically, doctors can diagnose both SJS and TEN by doing the following:  

● Conducting a physical examination in which the skin and membranes that are affected will be assessed

● Considering how much pain the patient is in

● By looking at how fast the rash or blisters have spread on the skin

● By evaluating how much skin has been affected 

After the physical examination, your doctor may perform the following tests:  

●     Skin biopsy – This is the easiest way to confirm an SJS diagnosis. This will also rule out other causes of the reaction to ensure the correct diagnosis is made. 

●     Skin or oral culture – To rule out an infection, your doctor may take skin or oral cultures from other areas on the body. 

●     Imaging tests – A chest x-ray may be ordered to check for pneumonia (a serious complication of SJS). 

●     Blood tests – These tests are used to confirm an infection or other potential causes of SJS. 

All the above tests should give your doctor the information necessary to make a diagnosis. Although SJS is relatively unknown to the general public, doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals are seeing more and more of these types of cases. Moreover, we cannot reiterate how important it is to see a doctor immediately if you are displaying any of the symptoms of SJS listed above.  

It is also important that you stop taking any medications that may be contributing to your condition right away. It can be challenging to pinpoint the exact cause of SJS, so discontinuing any medications that could be causing it is a natural first step. 

Do I Have a Lawsuit?

Often, SJS requires hospitalization and care in a burn unit. The road to recovery is an uphill battle that may entail wound care, fluid replacement and nutrition, and even eye care. If you or a loved one have had to deal with SJS, TEN, or another condition, give our Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers a call today and schedule a free consultation. 

Filing a lawsuit against the doctor who missed your diagnosis may be possible, depending on your situation. In other cases, the drug manufacturer has been held responsible for failing to include adequate warnings. We are here to help you understand your rights and determine if filing a lawsuit makes sense for you. To learn more about your options, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today and schedule an appointment. 

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Lyell’s Syndrome are both severe skin reactions that often lead to severe side effects. An extended type of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), Lyell’s Syndrome is more serious than SJS in that it usually affects more than 30 percent of the body’s surface area. Generally, SJS and TEN are caused by an allergic reaction to a specific medication. However, in some cases, the condition may develop as a result of a virus or infection.

One of the most challenging aspects of SJS is that it’s initial symptoms mimic those of other common conditions, such as the flu. If left untreated or misdiagnosed, SJS can turn into TEN or Lyell’s Syndrome, which is much more difficult to recover from. This is why it is so important that you seek medical attention when you first notice the symptoms discussed below. SJS is not something to ignore, hoping it will go away on its own. It is a deadly skin disease that can seemingly come out of nowhere.

As Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers, we understand how devastating this condition can be for both the victim and their loved ones. This is why our lawyers are dedicated to helping individuals who have been diagnosed with SJS or TEN determine if legal action is the right decision. If your doctor failed to diagnose your condition, or if you developed SJS after taking prescribed medication, and you were not informed about the potentially dangerous side effects, you may be able to pursue a lawsuit. These types of cases can be complicated, and our lawyers are here to help. 

What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

Before we look at Lyell’s Syndrome and how it differs from SJS, let’s briefly go over Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Many people have never heard of SJS, but if you have been impacted by this deadly condition, you understand it all too well. SJS is a rare condition that affects the skin and mucous membranes. In many cases, it begins with flu-like symptoms that eventually turn into a painful red or purplish rash. As the disease progresses, the skin will shed.

You must understand just how dangerous SJS is. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If a patient is not treated right away, hospitalization may be necessary. Often, SJS and TEN are treated in burn units, and the recovery can take weeks or even months. This is because the patient’s skin is burning from the inside out, requiring 24-hour care in an intensive care unit that specializes in treating the skin. 

What are the most common symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

Some of the most common symptoms associated with SJS include:

• Fever
• Widespread skin pain
• A reddish or purplish rash that spreads
• Blisters or sores on the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, eyes, and genitals
• Shedding of the skin
• Sore mouth and throat
• Extreme fatigue
• Cough
• Burning eyes
• Peeling skin
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Drooling
• Painful urination
• Eyes sealed shut from blisters and swelling

SJS can turn severe very quickly. An estimated 5 to 15 percent of all SJS patients die as a result of the condition.

drugs That are associated with SJS?

As mentioned earlier, SJS is often the result of an allergic reaction to a specific drug or medication. The drugs that are most likely to cause SJS include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Antibiotics and other medications that fight infections
• Antibacterial sulfa drugs
• Antigout medications
• Pain relievers, including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium
• Antiseizure medications
• Anticonvulsants and antipsychotics

What infections can lead to SJS?

Although SJS usually develops following a negative reaction to a medication, there are also a handful of infections that can cause the skin condition:

• Herpes
• Pneumonia
• HIV
• Hepatitis A 

What is Lyell’s Syndrome? 

Lyell’s Syndrome, or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), is an extremely deadly disease that affects the mucous membranes. Albeit rare, TEN can be triggered by drug allergy, infection, or even a bone marrow transplant. With TEN, the skin begins to peel off in sheets, leaving raw areas of the skin exposed. As you can imagine, this is very dangerous, and these areas are vulnerable to infection.

Some of the most common symptoms of Lyell’s or TEN include:

• A painful rash that spreads very quickly
• Skin that peels without blistering
• Raw, exposed areas of the skin
• Widespread skin pain and discomfort
• High fever

How Do SJS and TEN Differ?

In the past, it was believed that SJS and TEN were different conditions, but we know now that TEN occurs as SJS progresses. This is the most important distinction between the two conditions. While they carry very similar symptoms, TEN is often fatal.

Treatment for TEN will depend on the patient and the severity of the condition, but may include the following:

• Hospitalization at a burn unit
• Ointments and bandages to protect the exposed skin and infected areas
• Isolation to ensure the infection does not spread
• Fluids via IV
• Electrolytes
• Antibiotics (if an allergic reaction to an antibiotic did not cause the condition )

What Are the Risk Factors of SJS and TEN? 

Understanding what SJS and TEN are and how they differ as well as what the most common symptoms are will help you tackle your condition head-on. It is also important that we discuss some of the factors that increase your risk of developing SJS or TEN:

• A weak immune system
• A prior history of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
• A family history of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
• The HLA-B*1502 gene
• An HIV infection

Both SJS and TEN are deadly conditions that no one should have to face. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with SJS, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today. We are here to discuss your case with you and help you determine what your next step should be. If SJS has progressed into Lyell’s Syndrome or TEN, you must receive immediate medical attention. You may be able to file a lawsuit if your condition was misdiagnosed or missed altogether. These cases are very complicated. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation where we can discuss your options and help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a very serious disorder that impacts the skin and mucous membranes throughout the body. Generally, SJS develops as the result of an allergic reaction to a specific medication. Most people’s symptoms are similar to those of the flu in the beginning – fever, body aches, and cough.

However, as the disease progresses, other more serious symptoms settle in:

• Widespread red rash
• Blisters and sores all over the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes, genitals, and throat
• Peeling skin
• Unexplained skin pain
• Shedding of the skin several days after the blisters have formed

As you can see, the symptoms of SJS are unpleasant. Because SJS is a relatively rare skin condition, it is often misdiagnosed or overlooked entirely. When this happens, it often puts the patient in additional danger. If SJS isn’t diagnosed and treated early on, it may turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more deadly condition. In recent years, we have seen an increase in the number of medical malpractice lawsuits filed as a result of SJS. If your doctor missed an SJS diagnosis, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today and schedule a free consultation.

What Causes SJS?

Before we take a closer look at what recovery for SJS looks like, let’s go over the top causes of the skin condition. SJS is an unpredictable reaction that is often difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. However, it is usually triggered by an infection or an allergic reaction to a specific medication, as mentioned earlier. Depending on the individual and the drug, it may take several weeks for the body to react negatively to a given medication. This can make it difficult to discover which medication is the culprit, especially for those taking multiple drugs.

Drugs that often cause SJS include:

• Anti-gout medications
• Anticonvulsants and antipsychotics
• Other medications used to treat mental illness
• Pain medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium
• Drugs that fight infection, such as amoxicillin and penicillin

Treating and Recovering from SJS

Now that we know what SJS is and what causes it, let’s go over how it is treated for your recovery. Some of the initial steps to get the condition under control include:

• Stop the medication causing the reaction
• Use IV fluids to replace any lost electrolytes
• Promote healing with high-calorie foods
• Dress and clean the wounds
• Prevent infection with antibiotics

In many cases, patients with SJS must receive treatment at the intensive care or burn unit. Many patients describe SJS as feeling as if the “skin was burning from the inside out.” Severe cases of SJS can be fatal, and the recovery process is grueling. Many people suffer complications such as sepsis and pneumonia, as the body can no longer defend itself as it once could. The Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger understand how devastating this condition can be and will do everything we can to help you seek compensation for your damages. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

Different medications are prescribed to Americans every single day. From treating migraine headaches to medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease, it seems there’s a pill for everything. And while we’ve all cringed at the laundry list of side effects spouted during a TV commercial, most of us don’t think about how serious the consequences of these drug interactions can be.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a potential side effect of many different over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications. However, most people have never heard of this rare skin condition. For that reason, many people are unaware of how to treat this condition. SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are both very serious skin conditions that happen as side effects of various medications.

What is SJS?

Although rare, SJS is often deadly or carries long-term side effects. A catastrophic allergic reaction, SJS affects the mucous membrane, essentially resulting in the body burning from the inside out. Depending on the person and how severe of a case it is, the skin may blister and even peel off in sheets. Because of this, burn units often treat SJS victims.

What are the symptoms of SJS?

The first signs of SJS are usually found around the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, eyelids, and genital regions. Consequently, people will develop dark lesions on the skin, which often turn into painful blisters. Some of the other side effects of SJS include:

• Widespread rash
• Blisters or red lesions on the skin
• Blisters around the mouth, eyes, ears, nose, or genitals
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Fever and other flu-like symptoms

SJS is often misdiagnosed as the flu, which is extremely dangerous because SJS must be caught early if the patient is going to make a full recovery.

What Drugs Cause SJS?

The most common cause of SJS is an allergic reaction to a certain medication. Unfortunately, more than 200 medications link back to SJS. Here is a look at some of the over-the-counter drugs and prescription drugs that are most commonly associated with SJS and TEN:

• Penicillin, amoxicillin, and other antibiotics
• Sulfa drugs
• Medication prescribed for acne, such as Tetracycline and Accutane
• Anti-seizure medications
• Gout medications
• Herbal supplements with Ginseng
• Lamotrigine

Some drug manufacturers offer warnings, but the majority fail to even include the slightest warning about the potential risk of SJS. Drug companies have a duty to inform and protect consumers from the known adverse reactions of certain medications. When they fail to do so, they should be held accountable.

If you have been diagnosed with SJS after taking a prescription drug or over-the-counter medication, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today. Similarly, if your doctor failed to diagnose SJS or misdiagnosed your condition altogether, you may have a medical malpractice lawsuit on your hands. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.

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.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is one of the most nightmarish conditions a person can be diagnosed with. Often, children are the victims of this life-threatening skin condition. Many people must be admitted to burn units in order to receive proper care and treatment, which can be both traumatizing and expensive.

When this disorder strikes, the skin and mucous membranes usually react negatively to a specific medication, virus, or infection. SJS is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The key to making a full recovery is seeing a doctor right away and getting the proper diagnosis. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. In fact, SJS is one of the most misdiagnosed conditions out there. There are numerous reasons for this, namely that the signs and symptoms of SJS often mimic those of other conditions.

What are the Signs of SJS?

SJS and its advanced version – Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) – are extreme adverse reactions to a drug. This condition is painful and can be fatal if left untreated. Because the symptoms are often difficult to diagnose, SJS is often the result of medical malpractice. Before we look at the top three things you should keep in mind before filing an SJS lawsuit, let’s go over the most common signs associated with this serious skin condition:

• A shocking red rash that may have a “bullseye” in the center
• Blistered skin that peels off in sheets
• Blisters around the mouth, eyes, and genitals
• Blisters inside the nose
• Swelling of the skin
• Feeling as if your skin is on fire

If you have noticed any of the above after starting a new medication, stop taking the drug right away and call your doctor.

Top Considerations Before Filing a Lawsuit

If you have been diagnosed with SJS and are considering filing a lawsuit against your doctor, hospital, or another medical provider, the following tips may help you decide if this is the right move for you:

• Did your doctor misdiagnosis your condition? This could be grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit against your doctor or medical team.
• Did the drug’s manufacturer neglect to warn consumers and doctors about the potential side effects, including SJS? Many Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawsuits are successful because generic manufacturers failed to provide warnings about the risks of SJS. If this is the case, you may be able to move forward with an SJS lawsuit.
• Did your doctor fail to advise you to stop taking the medication after you showed signs of an allergic reaction? SJS often appears like an allergic reaction or even the flu, which can be misleading. If you had an allergic reaction to prescribed medication, and your doctor did not tell you to stop taking that drug immediately, you may have a lawsuit on your hands.

To learn more about the steps you must take to file a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawsuit, please contact our lawyers today and schedule a free consultation.

If you’ve been following our blog, you know just how tricky lawsuits involving Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) cases can be. SJS is a rare but deadly skin condition that many people have never heard of. However, we have seen numerous stories in the news as of late regarding just what an impact SJS can have. SJS victims often report feeling as if their “skin was melting off,” and many others are still living with complications and side effects caused by the disease.

This brings us to our blog topic today – should doctors be held accountable? Unfortunately, SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether, putting children and adults alike at risk. One of the main reasons this happens is that SJS carries many of the same symptoms as other common conditions, including the flu.

What are the symptoms of SJS?

Before we go any further, here is a reminder of the most common – and initial – symptoms of SJS:

• Fever
• Widespread skin pain
• Reddish or purplish rash that will spread as the disease progresses
• Blisters all over the skin
• Shedding of the skin after the blisters form
• Lesions on the mucous membranes, usually around the mouth, nose, eyes, and genitals

If you are experiencing the following symptoms after you notice a rash, seek immediate medical attention:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Pain in the mouth, nose, eyes, or genitals
• Extreme tiredness
• Cough
• Burning sensation in the eyes

If you see a doctor with the above symptoms and he or she misses diagnosing SJS, you may be able to file a lawsuit.

Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim

It is absolutely critical that SJS is caught and treated in its early stages. If this does not happen, it may develop into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which is an even more deadly condition that could lead to more serious complications.

Across the country, we have witnessed countless SJS lawsuits being filed against doctors, pharmacists, and others responsible for not diagnosing the condition. There are many common over-the-counter and prescription drugs that have been linked to SJS, including:

• Antibiotics
• Sulfa drugs
• Allopurinol
• Dilantin
• Depakote
• Levaquin
• Diclofenac
• Penicillin
• Sulfonamides
• Barbiturates
• Anti-seizure medications
• Gout medications

It is imperative that doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants are aware that a patient may develop SJS after taking these drugs. If they are unaware and symptoms are missed, the results could be catastrophic. If you have developed SJS, and your doctor did not catch the condition in its early stages, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger to learn about filing a medical malpractice lawsuit. The key to recovering from SJS is a quick diagnosis. When this does not happen, the patient may be at a heightened risk of life-threatening side effects and complications.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but very serious skin condition that can turn deadly if left untreated. While most people have likely never heard of SJS, those who have heard of it know just how severe this condition is. People who have been diagnosed with SJS often report feeling as if their skin is “burning from the inside out” or “melting off.”

In the early stages of the condition, you may experience flu-like symptoms that are eventually accompanied by a serious skin rash and blisters. Mucous membranes throughout the body, including the eyes, genitals, and mouth, can also be affected. In most cases, patients with SJS are admitted to burn units in order to receive the appropriate treatment.

What Causes SJS?

SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are actually the same disease but in varying degrees. If SJS is left untreated, it may turn into TEN. Unfortunately, SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether, resulting in long-term side effects and death in some cases. Many individuals who have been diagnosed with SJS file a medical malpractice lawsuit because they were not made aware of the risk that comes with many common over-the-counter medications.

Some of the known triggers of SJS include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Sulfonamides and penicillins
• Anticonvulsants

In addition to the above medications, the following infections may also result in SJS:

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

Why You Should Be Careful With Ibuprofen

Tragically, children are often the ones who develop SJS. The skin condition has been linked to children’s ibuprofen and Motrin, both of which fail to properly warn parents of the potential dangers. Some of the lawsuits filed against the manufacturers of children’s ibuprofen indicate that the biggest problem is the lack of adequate warning.

It is important that your child stops taking the medication immediately, should the following symptoms be present:

• Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting)
• Inflammation of the mucous membranes
• A painful red or purplish rash
• Blisters
• Open sores
• Shedding of the top layer of skin

If your child developed SJS after taking ibuprofen or another medication, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger.

What Are the Complications of SJS?

It is imperative that SJS is treated immediately. If not, it may turn into TEN, which has a much higher death rate. Some of the complications of SJS include:

• Cellulitis (a secondary skin infection)
• Sepsis
• Vision and eye complications
• Internal organ damage
• Permanent skin damage
• Deformity

To learn more about your rights following an SJS diagnosis, please contact the McKinney Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a fairly rare dermatological condition that is characterized by a widespread rash all over the body. In most cases, it is caused by an allergic reaction to a prescription or over-the-counter medication. However, it may also be linked to certain medical conditions or diseases.

Unfortunately, SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. This happens for numerous reasons, including the fact that it carries many of the same symptoms as other illnesses. If SJS is not caught early on, the results could be devastating. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with SJS, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. Today we are going to go over some of the medications linked to the skin disease, as well as what you should know if you are considering filing a medical malpractice lawsuit.

The Risks of Effects of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome  

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) can be deadly if left untreated. It is often a reaction to certain medications, including:

• Advil
• Children’s Advilwo
• Children’s Tylenol 
• Bextra
• Cerebyx
• Feldene
• Motrin
• Toradol
• Nalfon
• Viaxx
• Allopurinol

Many of these drugs are anticonvulsants, pain relievers, medications that fight infection, anti-gout medications, and antipsychotics.

In addition to the above medications, SJS may also be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, or certain conditions such as HIV and systemic lupus.

Should I File a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit? 

If you have experienced any of the following symptoms, seek medical treatment right away:

• Flu-like symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, fever, and burning eyes
• Blisters
• Widespread rash that is purple or red
• Skin pain
• Shedding of skin
• Swelling of the tongue
• Swelling of the face
• Hives or lesions on the genitals, mouth, or elsewhere on the body

In many cases, manufacturers do not properly warn doctors or the general public about the potential side effects. This means that patients are often at risk of developing SJS without their knowledge. Doctors may continue to prescribe these drugs, even though they can knowingly cause serious harm and death.

Because SJS symptoms are often overlooked, it is important you talk to a lawyer about your case. Medical malpractice is still a major problem in the United States, claiming nearly as many lives as cancer and heart disease every single year. At Wormington & Bollinger, we understand what you are going through and are here to ensure justice is served. If SJS progresses, it could turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more serious version of the disease.

Filing a medical malpractice lawsuit does not come without its challenges. Taking on big pharmaceutical companies like Johnson & Johnson can be challenging, but our Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers are ready to fight for you. To learn more, please give Wormington & Bollinger a call and schedule your free consultation.