The family of a Virginia Beach boy who died two years ago from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is suing Johnson & Johnson, the makers of Children’s Tylenol and Motrin.

According to the report, six-year-old Marcus Gauldin died from complications of SJS, which he got nine months after taking Tylenol for a fever. The child’s mother, Natalya Lowman, gave her then three-year-old children’s Tylenol, thinking it was perfectly safe.

There was no warning on the box of Tylenol that SJS was a potential risk, which is why the family’s estate is now bringing suit against Johnson & Johnson. The family is claiming that the 130-year-old pharmaceutical giant was aware that both Tylenol and Motrin could cause SJS, yet did nothing to warn patients of this risk.

What Happened to Marcus? 

Marcus was a “normal three-year-old” who became blind and unable to care of himself less than a year after taking Children’s Tylenol. He was in and out of hospitals all across Virginia for three years, unfortunately never making a full recovery.

As with many SJS victims, Marcus’ symptoms began with a high fever in May of 2014. His mother gave him a dose of Children’s Tylenol that evening to help with the fever, not realizing that was the reason he was suffering in the first place. As the condition progressed, he experienced a loss of appetite and vomiting.

He was then given Children’s Motrin after being admitted to the hospital.

After this second dosage of medication, the condition worsened and Marcus started to experience a wide range of serious medical complications, all of which were in line with the symptoms of SJS. It wasn’t until Marcus was transferred to the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters in Norfolk that he was properly diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

What symptoms did Marcus experience?   

Over the course of two months in the hospital, Marcus experienced the following symptoms:

• Severe skin lesions all over his body
• Open sores on his chest and stomach
• Damage to his eyes and lungs

Marcus’ mother says he looked like a burn victim during these months in the hospital, which is common for SJS victims.

After finally being released from the hospital, Marcus’ family tried to help him live a normal life, but he was now blind and suffering from a wide range of life-threatening complications from the disease.

Tragically, Marcus passed away on March 24, 2017 at the age of six after doctors were unable to get him a lung transplant, the most serious of his injuries.

Filing an SJS Lawsuit 

It is no secret that SJS is a very complicated condition that often proves deadly. For patients to recover, the condition must be caught early on and an aggressive treatment plan should be implemented. Like in the case of young Marcus, this is not always the case.

If you have been diagnosed with SJS or lost a loved one to the disease, please contact the experienced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger. We are here to help you bring a lawsuit against those responsible, such as the drug’s manufacturer who knowingly put a product on the market that could cause harm or death.

Many people in the United States have likely never heard of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). But those that have understand just how complicated and devastating it can be. An acute inflammatory skin reaction that usually develops as a result of taking a certain medication or an infection, SJS is one of the most misdiagnosed illnesses in the world. One of the reasons for this is the fact that it usually begins with a fever, sore throat, and other symptoms that are very similar to the flu. If your doctor is unfamiliar with SJS and you go to him or her with these symptoms, there’s a good chance they will send you home with some antibiotics. Unfortunately, this happens all the time, leaving SJS patients at risk of the disease progressing.

What Happens as SJS Progresses?

As SJS progresses, other symptoms develop, such as:

• A widespread rash
• Painful sores or blisters
• Skin that peels off in sheets
• Skin lesions
• Skin pain
• Sore throat and mouth
• Fatigue
• Burning eyes

As you can see, many of these symptoms are similar to those of other common conditions. This is yet another reason why SJS is such a complex disease. If left undiagnosed, SJS may also manifest into an even more deadly disease, called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). This iteration of the condition is far more serious than SJS, making it difficult for patients to make a full recovery.

SJS and Medical Malpractice

The majority of SJS cases happen as a result of an allergic reaction to a specific medication. Because of this, SJS often results in medical malpractice. Unfortunately, medications are often prescribed to patients without enough research being conducted – regarding the patient’s medical history and the drug itself. If you were prescribed a drug that you are allergic to and developed SJS as a result, you may be able to sue for medical malpractice. It is also quite common for SJS to go unnoticed or undiagnosed, resulting in a delay in treatment. As we’ve mentioned, the sooner SJS is diagnosed, the greater the chance the patient will have of getting the treatment they need to make a full recovery.

In the event medical malpractice is established, the victim may be able to seek compensation for a wide range of damages, such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, disability, and mental anguish. These cases are complicated and require the expertise and knowledge of a medical malpractice lawyer. Here at Wormington & Bollinger, our Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers have handled numerous cases just like this. We are here to help you understand your rights and what type of legal action you may be able to take. If you lost a loved one to SJS, you may also be able to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Please give us a call today to schedule a free consultation where we can discuss your case.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that usually occurs because of a severe allergic reaction to a medication or an infection. As we’ve discussed in past blog posts, one of the most challenging parts of diagnosing SJS is the fact that many of its symptoms mimic those of other illnesses, such as the common flu. Because of this, many people mistakenly think they are coming down with the flu, when they are actually in the early stages of SJS. This is a fast-moving disease that must be caught early in order to be properly diagnosed and treated. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. If you have developed SJS and your doctor or other medical professional did not diagnose it early on, you may be able to take legal action.

What Happens Next?

Shortly after a person develops flu-like symptoms, they may start to notice ulcers on the mucous membranes, usually in the mouth or lips, but they may also appear in the anal or genital areas. In the case of children, SJS often leads to conjunctivitis, which is an inflammation or swelling of the eyelid lining. In the coming days and weeks, the following symptoms may occur:

• Skin rash
• Blisters
• Skin lesions up to an inch wide
• Widespread skin pain
• Shedding of the skin several days after the blisters have formed
• Sore mouth and throat
• Fatigue
• Burning eyes

To treat SJS as efficiently as possible, it is imperative you seek immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, we encourage you to go to the emergency room right away. SJS can progress very quickly, leaving the patient with even more serious symptoms than at first.

SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) 

When it comes to the progression of SJS, we must, of course, discuss Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). While it was once thought that SJS and TEN were very different conditions, we now know TEN is just a more severe version of SJS. When TEN occurs, patients will usually have ulcers on the mucous membranes as well as a more severe skin rash and one-inch lesions that can appear anywhere on the skin. As the condition gets worse, the top layer of skin may separate from the middle layer (the dermis), impacting the skin’s blood supply. If left untreated, the skin may peel off in large sheets, which is not only extremely painful but life-threatening as well.

To stop the progression of SJS, seeking medical care is absolutely imperative. Patients with SJS may experience a rash on 10 percent of the body, whereas those with TEN may have more than 30 percent of their body covered in a rash. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with SJS or TEN, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today. We have represented countless individuals in similar situations and are prepared to do the same for you today.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare yet abrupt skin disease that usually occurs from an allergic reaction to a specific medication. While it can develop following an infection or as a result of certain diseases or conditions, in the majority of cases it is caused by a certain drug. Unfortunately, the group that has the highest risk of developing SJS is children. It should be noted that the most common trigger for SJS in children is infections, including:

• Herpes
• Mumps
• Flu
• Epstein Barr virus

While adults may develop SJS after taking pain killers, antibiotics, anticonvulsants, or other drugs, SJS in children presents following an infection. This is because the immune system of young children is much weaker than that of adults, making them susceptible to dangerous conditions just like this one. If you have ever been around someone with SJS before, you likely understand just how serious it is. As Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers, we have seen firsthand how devastating this skin condition can be. We are here to help you understand your rights and ensure justice is served.

Side Effects of SJS  

For both the young and old, SJS carries devastating side effects. Some of the most common side effects that children experience includes:

• Severe rash
• Blistering of the skin and mouth
• Red spots on the skin
• Blisters in the eyes, mouth, ears, nose, or genital area
• Swelling of the eyelids
• High fever or flu-like symptoms

According to research, approximately 5 to 15 percent of all SJS patients may die as a result of the disease. This is why it is so imperative that SJS is caught earlier, especially in children and the elderly. SJS is particularly dangerous to these individuals because their immune systems often are not strong enough to fight off the disease. As a parent, it is important you know what to look for and take action right away if you believe your child may have SJS. The sooner the condition is treated, the greater the chance of recovery.

How Can SJS Be Prevented

Unfortunately, there is not a specific treatment for SJS right at the moment of the attack. Treating SJS starts with replacing fluids, calories, and salts, and treating the skin as if it were a severe burn. This is why many SJS victims receive care in burn units. While SJS may be prevented by avoiding the drugs that cause a reaction, for many individuals, this is not possible. Because children usually get SJS following an infection, it is imperative you follow your doctor’s instructions closely and notify them if you have any concerns.

If your child developed SJS, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today and ask about your rights.

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.

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.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a very serious skin condition that is usually caused by an allergic reaction to a specific medication. While many people have likely never heard of SJS, there have been numerous stories in the news of late surrounding the deadly skin disease. In the middle of February, an L.A. teenager’s skin “melted” off following a severe reaction to a prescription drug. In this particular case, the drug (lamictal) had a black box FDA warning, which is the strictest the FDA can issue. Lamictal is a popular drug prescribed to treat seizures, epilepsy, and bipolar disorder. However, the FDA has warned about its potentially dangerous side effects, including SJS. Lamictal is one of the drugs most commonly linked to SJS cases in teenagers and adults alike.

If you have been given an SJS diagnosis like the California teenager mentioned in the story above, it is imperative you understand what this means and what your next steps are. SJS often worsens quickly, which is why it is important you seek medical attention as soon as you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Flu-like symptoms to start (including a sore throat, cough, fever, and burning eyes)
• Hives
• Blisters
• Red or purple skin rash
• Shedding of skin
• Skin pain
• Swelling of the tongue
• Swelling of the face

While this was not the case with Lamictal, many of the drugs linked to SJS do not carry adequate warnings on their prescribing labels, boxes, or package inserts. Because of this, patients are often continued to be prescribed these drugs that can result in SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

What Happens Once I’ve Been Diagnosed with SJS?

Unfortunately, SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. This is because it carries many symptoms similar to other conditions and illnesses, such as the common flu. If your physician misdiagnosed SJS and you suffered as a result, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today. We have represented countless patients in similar cases and are prepared to do the same for you.

If you have been diagnosed with SJS, the first thing you should do is seek immediate treatment. SJS can worsen quickly, which can have long-term effects on your health. In many cases, SJS patients will need to be treated in a burn unit, as their symptoms are similar to those who have suffered burns. There are also a handful of complications that may develop with SJS, including:

• Meningitis
• Sepsis

People who have been diagnosed with SJS often experience eye problems, damage to internal organs, and permanent skin damage. If you have or believe you may have, SJS, seek medical attention right away and stop taking any medications that may be causing the reaction. To learn more about your rights following an SJS diagnosis, please contact us today.

One of the main reasons Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is such a dangerous disease is because of how quickly it can progress. Unfortunately, SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether, resulting in a serious problem for the patient, including death. As Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers, we have seen firsthand how costly these errors can be. While many people are unfamiliar with SJS, those who have been impacted know all too well just how devastating it can be.

SJS is a rare allergic skin reaction that basically causes the top layer of skin to peel completely off. There are numerous causes of SJS, but in most cases, it develops as a result of an allergic reaction to a specific medication. Some of the medications that have been linked to SJS include:

• Antibiotics
• Sulfa drugs
• Allopurinal or Aloprim
• Zyloprim
• Dilantin
• Depakote
• Levaquin
• Diclofenac
• Penicillin
• Barbiturates
• Sulfonamides
• Phenytoin
• Azithromycin
• Oxcarbazepine
• Zonisamide
• Gout medications
• Seizure medications

This is an extensive list, to say the least. Depending on the person, the allergic reaction may not start right away and can even take more than a week after the medicine was started. In most cases, the first symptoms are high fever, sore throat, fatigue, or tiredness. These symptoms are quite common and often associated with other conditions, such as the flu. Because these symptoms are not so unique, doctors often misdiagnose SJS. Unfortunately, when this happens it can be catastrophic for the patient.

Treating SJS Quickly is a Must

As SJS settles in, it becomes a very serious medical emergency. All medications the patient is taking should be stopped immediately in order to determine which is causing the symptoms. This is especially true if the patient is taking any of the medications known to be associated with SJS. Treatment for SJS is very similar to that of burn patients, as they will need to be given IV fluids and parenteral feedings. Once SJS is diagnosed and the patient is given the supportive care they need, nothing can be done to reverse the damage that has already been done. This is the main reason why it is absolutely imperative that doctors act quickly and catch SJS before it worsens. In some cases, SJS can turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more serious version of the skin disease.

Permanent Injuries Linked to SJS

If SJS is left untreated or progresses without detection, it can lead to a wide range of very serious, permanent injuries. Some of these injuries include:

• Blindness
• Scarring
• Chronic and severe pain
• Loss of teeth
• Damage to the organs, such as heart, lungs, or kidneys
• Death

As experienced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers, we understand just how devastating this diagnosis can be. If your doctor failed to diagnose you or if you did not receive the care you needed in a timely manner, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. To learn more about your rights, please contact our McKinney SJS lawyers today.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but very serious skin condition that could lead to potentially life-threatening reactions. Both SJS and its more serious counterpart Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are typically caused by an adverse reaction to a specific medication. Unfortunately, many common over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications can cause SJS. In recent years, we have started to learn more about SJS/TEN, now understanding that these conditions could be avoided by more knowledge. One of the most common reasons SJS/TEN occurs is because of misdiagnosis and overlooked symptoms. If you have developed SJS because of a medication error or failure on the part of your physician to recognize the symptoms, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger.

Understanding SJS

 SJS and TEN are caused by an abnormal immune response to certain medications or infections. In most cases, the conditions start with flu-like symptoms that then lead to a severe rash and blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. When these conditions are not treated immediately, they could result in severe scarring, loss of vision, organ failure, and death. While SJS is less severe than TEN, they are both extremely serious and require immediate medical attention.

One of the most shocking cases of SJS we’ve seen surrounded a woman whose skin “melted off” after she was prescribed the drug lamotrigine for depression in 2014. According to the report, the woman developed SJS as a reaction to the medication and a wrong dosage. With SJS, your body essentially starts to burn from the inside out, resulting in a melting sensation. This is why so many SJS and TEN patient are treated at burn units.

Symptoms of SJS

While SJS has always been considered a rare condition, recently information indicates it may be more common than we think. However, a general lack of knowledge – both on the part of the medical community and public – is one of the contributing factors to the skin condition. The majority of SJS cases affect adults, and women are twice as likely to experience SJS or TEN than men. As mentioned, SJS usually manifests with flu-like symptoms in the beginning. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms may occur:

• Headache
• Fever
• Blistering skin
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Burning or itching eyes
• Fatigue
• Achy muscles
• Joint pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Over time, these symptoms give way to an unbearable burning sensation on the skin, followed by red or purple lesions that can be up to an inch in size. In most cases, these lesions form on the face, torso, arms, and legs. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with SJS as the result of a medication error or missed diagnosis, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today. We offer free consultations and are here to answer any questions you may have about your options or potential case today.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), there’s a good chance you feel overwhelmed and unsure what to do. While many people have never heard of the rare skin condition until it affects them personally, SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are actually not as uncommon as previously thought. Both SJS and TEN are most commonly associated with an allergic reaction to a specific medication, such as many over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Some of the most common drugs linked to SJS include:

• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc), and naproxen sodium (Aleve)
• Medications that fight infection, such as penicillin and amoxicillin
• Anti-gout medications, including allopurinol
• Medications manufactured to treat seizures and mental illness (anticonvulsants and antipsychotics)

There are also many different infections that can cause SJS, including:

• Herpes virus
• Pneumonia
• HIV
• Hepatitis A

Some of the other risk factors of SJS include:

• An HIV infection – People who have been diagnosed with HIV are 100 times more likely to develop SJS than other individuals
• A weakened immune system – If your immune system is not strong enough, you may be at a higher risk of developing SJS. There are numerous factors that can result in a weakened immune system, such as an organ transplant, autoimmune disease, and HIV or AIDS.
• A past history of SJS – If you have had SJS in the past, there is a chance the condition will reoccur if you use the medication that caused SJS.
• A family history of SJS – If someone in your immediate family has been diagnosed with SJS or TEN, you may be more likely to develop it than others.
• You have the HLA-B*1502 gene – Individuals with the HLA-B-1502 gene have an increased risk of SJS, especially if they take medications for seizures, mental illness, or gout. Individuals of Chinese, Southeast Asian, or Indian descent are much more likely to carry this gene than others.

There are numerous complications that can arise with SJS and TEN. Some of these complications that we see more frequently than others include:

• Cellulitis (a secondary skin infection)
• Blood infection (sepsis)
• Eye problems
• Lung problems, including acute respiratory failure
• Permanent skin damage

While it is difficult to predict who will develop SJS, there are certain things you can do to lower your chances. For example, if someone in your family has had SJS, it may be in your best interest to undergo genetic testing before taking certain drugs. These tests can also determine whether or not you have the HLA-B*1502 gene, which puts you at a higher risk. If you have had SJS in the past, be sure and avoid the drug that caused the condition and encourage your family members to do the same.

SJS is a very serious skin condition that can have a long-lasting impact. If you were diagnosed with SJS and your primary care physician missed it, you may be able to file a lawsuit. To learn more about your legal rights following an SJS diagnosis, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today and schedule a free consultation.

If you are someone who has been affected by Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), you understand just how important it is to have a team of professionals on your side. Not only do you need someone who has experience representing SJS patients, but medical experts who have treated SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) patients. In fact, having an experienced lawyer and numerous medical professionals on your side could be the difference between life and death.

What is SJS?

SJS is a rare but deadly skin disease that is typically caused by an allergic reaction to a specific medication. It is considered a hypersensitivity disorder that affects the mucous membranes and skin, resulting in a wide range of complications and long-term problems. While the condition is most commonly referred to as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome or SJS, it also goes by the following names:

• Erythema Multiforme Major
• Ectodermosis Erosiva Pluriorificialis

We also now understand that SJS is a form of TEN, another life-threatening skin condition that, when cells die, the epidermis becomes separated from the dermis. In most cases, SJS and TEN are caused by an allergic reaction to very common over-the-counter and prescription medications, including:

• Some penicillins
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Including aspirin, ibuprofen, Celebrex, and naproxen
• Barbiturates
• Anticonvulsants

SJS is often deadly or very dangerous because in the beginning stages of the condition it is often mistaken for the flu. Symptoms such as coughing, fever, and sore throat are common. As the disorder progresses, there will be visible signs on the skin and mucous membranes, such as:

• A red or purplish rash
• Red or purple hives with a target shape
• Blisters near or around the nose, mouth, eyes, or genitals
• Swollen tongue and/or face
• Skin pain or discomfort
• Conjunctivitis
• Persistent fever

Facts About SJS

SJS and TEN are responsible for an estimated 150,000 deaths every year in the United States alone. Because of this fact, adverse reactions to drugs are the fourth-leading cause of death in the U.S. Unfortunately, SJS is considered one of the most serious and debilitating adverse drug reactions since it was discovered in 1922 by two pediatricians.

We mentioned that SJS is usually caused by an allergic reaction to a medication, but it can also develop as a result of an infection or certain cancers in some rare situations. The majority of SJS patients will need to be cared for by a medical or pediatric ICU, and patients with TEN are often treated in burn units because of the severity of the skin reaction. 

Why Would I Need a Lawyer?

Medical malpractice and adverse reactions to seemingly ‘safe’ drugs are a serious problem in the United States and throughout the world. The Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers here at Wormington & Bollinger have represented countless SJS patients, helping them seek justice. If you were prescribed a medication that you were allergic to, resulting in SJS, you may be able to take legal action. Additionally, if your doctor did not catch SJS in its early stages and misdiagnosed your condition, you may have the right to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. To learn more about these options, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced SJS lawyers.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but deadly skin disease that can be extremely complex. Unfortunately, SJS often goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed by doctors. This is due to numerous factors, but one of the main reasons is because SJS symptoms mimic other more common conditions, such as the flu.

SJS and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are two very serious skin conditions that typically happen as a result of an allergic reaction to a specific medication. There are literally hundreds of medications that may cause SJS, including common over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Many of the large manufacturers of these drugs are facing lawsuits, as they have failed to include a warning to patients that SJS may be a side effect of taking the medication.

I’ve Been Diagnosed with SJS, Now What?

As mentioned, SJS cases are often complicated and hardly ever as straightforward as we would like. Depending on the circumstances, these cases can lead to huge medical bills for medical treatment, and the long-term effects can be permanent. SJS is incredibly painful and causes the epidermis to separate from the dermis, falling off in long sheets and leaving the skin raw and exposed, prime for bacteria and infection. TEN is the more serious form of SJS and has a much higher mortality rate. If SJS goes undetected, it could turn into TEN, which will be much more difficult to bounce back from.

Some of the drugs known to cause SJS and TEN include:

• Advil
• Aleve
• Cerebyx
• Dilantin
• Flagyls
• Lamictal
• Motrin
• Tegretol
• Toradol
• Zithromax

These are just a handful of the brand names that have been linked to SJS. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is imperative you seek medical attention right away:

• Fever
• Widespread body aches
• Red rash
• Cough
• Blisters and sores on the mouth, genitals, and anus
• Peeling skin
• Drooling
• Eyes sealed shut

This is a very serious condition that is not only painful but can have lasting repercussions. Many SJS must be treated at burn units because the skin is so infected and raw.

You may need the support and guidance of a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer if your doctor failed to diagnose SJS or if you were not warned of the potential side effects. We have represented countless SJS patients and are prepared to do the same for you. If you have developed SJS and your healthcare provider did not catch it, you may be able to bring a lawsuit against them. To learn more about your rights and what to do if you have been affected by SJS, please contact a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer at Wormington & Bollinger.