Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious skin condition that many people have never heard of. SJS is categorized as a type IV hypersensitivity reaction that typically affects the skin and mucous membranes. It is often associated with Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which researchers have recently learned is just a more serious version of SJS. Individuals who have developed SJS will experience less than 10 percent of their body surface area (BSA) affected, whereas those with TEN may see more than 30 percent of the BSA.

Both SJS and TEN are life-threatening, drug-induced reactions that are linked to a handful of common over-the-counter and prescription medications. In most cases, SJS is triggered by a specific medication and results in the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes developing sores and open wounds. SJS can be extremely difficult to spot, namely because its symptoms are very similar to those of other, more common conditions. In its earliest stages, SJS may appear like the flu: headache, aches and pains, coughing, eye redness, sensitivity to light, sore throat, or swelling. Other common symptoms associated with SJS include skin rashes, blisters, purplish or red spots on the skin, and small bumps. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure and schedule an appointment with your physician right away. It is imperative that SJS is caught in its early stages in order for the patient to have a good chance of full recovery.

Risks Associated with SJS

Individuals who take the following drugs may be at a heightened risk of developing SJS or TEN:

• Ibuprofen
• Celebrex
• Children’s Advil
• Daypro
• Dilantin
• Cerebyx
• Feldene
• Indocin
• Motrin
• Relafen
• Toradol
• Vioxx
• Zithromax

One of the most popular drugs on the above list is Dilantin, an anti-seizure medication manufactured by Pfizer. This drug has been definitely linked to SJS and/or TEN, which means individuals who take Dilantin are at an immediate risk of developing the skin condition. Because SJS is caused by an allergic reaction to a drug or medication, it is imperative you discuss any allergies or adverse reactions with your physician. Antibiotics are the number one trigger of SJS, followed by pain relievers, cough and cold medications, NSAIDs, anticonvulsants, and medications used to treat gout.

In addition to the above, individuals who are prone to infections may also be at a heightened risk of developing SJS. Viral infections – such as herpes, pneumonia, HIV, and hepatitis – in particular may precede SJS. Furthermore, it is also common for individuals to have a specific genetic predisposition that can increase the chance of SJS. To learn more about who is at risk of SJS or if you are in need of a McKinney Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer, please give us a call today.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that many people are unfamiliar with. However, a new study has found that individuals who have suffered from SJS or its sister disease Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are at a heightened risk for a recurrence of the reaction. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), once a person suffers from either SJS or TEN, they are far more likely to suffer a recurrence. While both SJS and TEN are rare, in many cases the physician fails to diagnose the condition or the recurrence. This is extremely dangerous and can result in catastrophic injuries, or even death.

What is SJS?

SJS is an autoimmune reaction that can occur for a wide range of reasons, but most commonly due to a negative reaction to a specific drug. Many of the symptoms associated with SJS mimic those of other conditions, which is why it is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. In the beginning, patients will experience flu-like symptoms such as chills, fever, and widespread muscle aches. While these symptoms are often associated with other diseases, when a patient has SJS the symptoms will rapidly escalate and turn into a painful rash with blisters, skin lesions, and ulcers. Because SJS is an autoimmune disorder, it can even spread to the mucous membranes and attack a patient’s eyes, genitals, and internal organs.

When SJS escalated, it can become an even more dangerous condition called TEN. Patients who have TEN will experience patches of skin sloughing off, resulting in burn-like wounds. Many SJS and TEN patients will be admitted to burn units because of the wounds and the way the condition affects the skin.

Taking Precautions Against Recurrence of SJS

As mentioned, nearly all cases of SJS are a result of a person taking a specific over-the-counter medication. It is nearly impossible to determine who will get SJS as a result of taking certain drugs. Some of the drugs linked to SJS include antibiotics, anticonvulsants, NSAIDs, and even very common medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

If you have been diagnosed with SJS in the past and survived, it is very important you take precaution against recurrence of the disease. If possible, pinpoint what triggered the reaction and work to avoid that medication and any other in the same class. Unfortunately, a recurrence of SJS is typically much more severe than the first episode and can even be fatal. Individuals who have suffered through and survived SJS should take the following into consideration:

• Know what caused your reaction
• Inform your doctor or healthcare provider that you have a history of SJS
• Wear a medical bracelet or carry a card that has information about your condition and what may have caused it

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with SJS, please contact a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome attorney from Wormington & Bollinger. We will sit down with you and evaluate whether you have a claim or not. Please give us a call today to schedule a free consultation.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that many people have never heard of. SJS affects the skin and mucous membrane and carries the potential to cause a patient to lose up to 10 percent of the outer layer of skin. In many cases, SJS is caused by a negative reaction to a medicine you’ve been taking. Some of the most common medications linked to SJS are antibiotics, NSAIDs, over-the-counter pain medications, and anti-seizure medicines. One of the most troubling aspects surrounding SJS is that symptoms may not show up for anywhere from one week to two months after you have started taking the medication. It is important to note that prescription drugs aren’t the only thing that can cause SJS. SJS may also be caused by infection, vaccinations, or certain diseases that affect the whole body, including the organs.

Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of SJS

SJS is incredibly hard to diagnose for a handful of reasons. Many of the symptoms and signs linked to SJS are also associated with other, more common illnesses. This is why so many SJS cases go undiagnosed, which can be catastrophic for the patient. If SJS is not caught in its early stages, it can develop into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) which is an even more serious and life-threatening skin condition. In years past it was thought that SJS and TEN were separate conditions, but we have now learned that TEN is simply a more serious version of SJS.

With that in mind, let’s take a quick look at some of the most common signs and symptoms of SJS:

• Fever and chills up to two weeks before any skin symptoms show up
• Red sores on the skin
• Painful mouth sores that make it difficult to breathe and swallow
• Blisters on the skin, eyes, or genitals
• Skin may look as if it is sunburned once the top layer falls off

Diagnosing SJS is the most difficult part. Doctors who are familiar with SJS cases may be able to diagnose you as soon as he sees your skin, but other cases are not so easy.

The Beginning of SJS

The earliest signs of SJS are often fever and malaise, which is described as a feeling of bodily discomfort, including achy joints and overall soreness. Many of these symptoms are similar to those of the flu, which is why they are overlooked by many healthcare practitioners. When patients develop SJS as a result of a reaction to medication, these flu-like symptoms will usually arise within four to 28 days of taking the drug. It is important to be vigilant about how you are feeling and contact your doctor if you believe something is amiss. If you begin to develop a skin rash, blisters, or any of the other symptoms listed above in addition to the flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor right away.

The SJS lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger have extensive experience representing individuals who have been diagnosed with SJS. If your doctor failed to diagnose your condition early on, you may have the legal right to file a lawsuit. To learn more about pursuing a lawsuit, please contact the SJS lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today.

 Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a life-threatening skin condition that is commonly caused by an adverse reaction to many over-the-counter and prescription medications. This rare condition affects the skin and mucous membranes, which can result in the loss of more than 10 percent of the outer layer of skin. If left untreated, SJS can develop into Toxic-Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more serious condition with a higher mortality rate. The most common medications that lead to SJS include antibiotics, NSAIDs, and anti-seizure medications. Patients can display symptoms anywhere from one week to two months after taking the medicine. In some rare instances, SJS can be caused by infection, vaccinations, or diseases that target certain organs or the whole body.

SJS is extremely difficult to diagnose because it displays many symptoms similar to other conditions. However, in order for a patient to fully recover, it is imperative SJS is diagnosed in its early states. Although only 1.5 to 1.9 cases occur per million people, the mortality rate is nearly 50 percent for TEN and 9 percent for SJS. Perhaps the most tell-tale sign of a patient with SJS is varying degrees of detachment of the epidermis, which leads to open wounds that may appear like burns. Because of the nature of the wounds associated with SJS and TEN, most patients are referred to a burn unit for treatment. This is done in order to focus on the wound and dressing management. Unfortunately, research indicates that in many cases the referral of patients with SJS or TEN to a burn unit were delayed, which can have a huge impact on the odds of recovery.

Managing SJS

As mentioned, most SJS patients are treated in burn units or intensive care units. While there is no specific treatment for SJS, the majority of patients are treated based on their individual symptoms. Severe fluid loss is one of the biggest concerns with SJS patients, which is why paramedics, doctors, and nurses alike are advised to take extra care and refer patients to special burn units in most cases. Once admitted, special attention should be given to the airway and pain control should be a top priority, in addition to fluid replacement.

SJS patients should also be under careful surveillance, as many are at risk of infection and the disease spreading. It is important to try and halt the disease process, while treating the wounds and making sure the patient’s pain is under control at the same time. This is a very complicated disease that does not come with one straightforward treatment plan. While we’ve learned a lot about SJS and TEN in recent years, there is still a lot we do not know. One of the biggest mistakes doctors make is failure to diagnose or recognize the early signs of SJS – which is a life or death situation.

If your doctor missed an SJS diagnosis, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today. Our experienced SJS lawyers have handled many similar cases and are prepared to meet with you today and do the same.

 Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare skin condition that has been in the news far more frequently in recent years. While many people have never heard of SJS, those that have experienced it firsthand understand just what a life-changing condition it is. Both SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are severe adverse reactions to a wide range of medications, including popular over-the-counter drugs that people take on a daily basis. Unfortunately, SJS and TEN carry high mortality rates, which is just one reason why they have such a significant impact on our public health system. SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether, which can be deadly for the patient. Although our medical community is learning more about the signs, symptoms, and implications of SJS, it is still a relatively mysterious condition to the general public.

As we discussed last month, doctors have recently discovered that TEN is actually an extension of SJS, not a completely different condition. This is a very important discovery that will give doctors more information to adequately treat both. As a refresher, TEN is considered a more severe form of SJS and is much more difficult to treat. Today we are going to look at what we know about SJS, including how it is diagnosed, as well as touch on why most people haven’t heard of SJS. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with SJS as the result of a medication you were prescribed, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome attorneys at Wormington & Bollinger today so we can get started on your case.

Diagnosing SJS

 If a patient displays any of the signs or symptoms of SJS (painful blistering of the skin, flu-like symptoms, severe conjunctivitis, red/purple rash, high fever, peeling of skin) his or her doctor should immediately try to determine if the patient has developed SJS. In order to diagnose SJS, the following is performed:

• A physical exam (the patient’s medical history will also be looked at during the exam)
• Skin biopsy – If your doctor suspects you may have SJS after his or her examination, he will likely take a sample of skin (biopsy) in order to rule out any other possible causes
• Skin or oral culture – At this point your doctor will take a skin or oral culture to confirm or rule out some other type of infection
• X-rays – Your doctor may also have you undergo a chest X-ray to check for pneumonia and rule out any other conditions
• Blood tests – Lastly, your doctor may use blood tests to confirm infection or rule out any other possible causes of your symptoms

Once your doctor has diagnosed you with SJS based on the above, he will likely discuss your treatment options with you. Depending on the severity of the case, treatment for SJS will vary. However, all patients will require hospitalization and some will need to be in an intensive care unit or burn center. Regardless of how far the disease has progressed, your doctor will instruct you to stop taking any medications that may be causing your symptoms to worsen. Supportive care is an important element of SJS treatment and something most hospitals will provide you with. To learn more about what you can expect with an SJS diagnosis or if you are considering pursuing a lawsuit, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is a life-threatening, rare skin disorder that is most commonly linked to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Both TEN and SJS are caused by a negative reaction to certain drugs, including popular antibiotics, anticonvulsants, NSAIDs, and over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen. Also known as Lyell’s Syndrome, TEN is an extremely serious and debilitating skin condition. In recent years we have learned a lot about both SJS and TEN. While past medical professionals viewed the two as separate conditions, recent studies have uncovered that SJS and TEN are linked and that TEN is a more severe form of SJS. This is a helpful revelation that has given medical professionals a great deal of information helpful in treating it. Unfortunately, both SJS and TEN are often misdiagnosed because their symptoms are quite similar to those of other conditions.

Symptoms of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis  

TEN causes the top layer of the skin to basically detach from the lower layers throughout the entire body. This then causes the skin to peel in sheets, leaving large, raw areas of the body exposed. When these layers of skin are lost, fluids and salts within the body begin to seep out from the raw areas. Individuals with TEN are extremely susceptible to infection, which can be fatal. While each individual may have a different experience, the most common symptoms of TEN include:

• Rash, blisters, or red spots on the skin
• Blisters around or in the mouth, eyes, ears, nose, or genital areas
• Swelling and irritation of the eyelids
• Flu-like symptoms
• Fever
• Discomfort

TEN is a life-threatening condition that may carry the same or similar symptoms as other skin conditions. If you are worried you may have TEN, please contact your doctor right away. 

Facts About Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

To help you gain a better understanding of what, exactly, TEN is, here are a few facts to keep in mind:

• The primary cause of TEN is a negative reaction to medication
• TEN symptoms usually begin to appear one to four weeks from taking the causative drug
• Lesions and sores will appear much deeper than those associated with SJS
• Patients with TEN will usually have elevated white blood counts and a high fever
• Lesions can spread internally and affect the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems

The Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger investigate potential lawsuits and will help you better understand your rights, should you find yourself diagnosed with either SJS or TEN. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact us today.

Last month it was reported that new use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may be linked to an increased risk for Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), both of which are extremely serious. According to a recent study published by Epilepsia, common AEDs such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine may cause SJS. Investigators found that there was a significant connection between the use of these AEDs and SJS/TEN incidence, giving cause for concern for anyone who has been prescribed these medications by their doctor. This is a relatively new study that was just released at the end of November. We are still in the process of monitoring the side effects associated with AEDs and how at risk people are of developing SJS/TEN.

If you or a loved one is taking one of the above mentioned AEDs or other antiepileptic drug and notices any of the symptoms associated with early SJS, please contact your physician immediately. Early diagnosis is imperative to treating SJS successfully. If you believe you have an SJS lawsuit on your hands or would like to learn more about your rights, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today. Our Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers have extensive experience representing individuals who have developed SJS as a result of taking a prescribed medication and are prepared to do the same for you.

What Are the Symptoms of SJS?

 Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a rare skin condition that is most commonly induced by an overreaction of the immune system to certain medication or a mild infection. SJS was discovered by two physicians in the 20th century who first noticed symptoms such as peeling and blistering of the skin, surfaces of the eyes, mouth and throat. SJS can develop in both children and adults, however, in adults the cause is most commonly an adverse reaction to some medication. In children, the condition is typically triggered by a viral infection such as the flu or mumps.

In many cases, people with SJS are hospitalized in a burn unit and provided fluids in order to replenish the system. The first step is usually to immediately stop the patient from taking any suspected drugs. It was recently determined that SJS is how the rare skin condition manifests to start. If left untreated, it could turn into TEN, which is far more serious and often fatal.

Diagnosing SJS/TEN 

It is of the utmost importance that SJS is caught early on in order to prevent the disease from worsening. The best way to diagnose to SJS is to see a doctor immediately. In some cases a skin biopsy may be requested in order to be absolutely sure the patient has SJS. Medical professionals can often diagnose SJS/TEN by the appearance of the skin and mucous membranes, the symptoms, how much of the skin if affected, and how quickly the condition spreads. If you have contracted SJS and your doctor either misdiagnosed your condition or failed to properly diagnose you, please contact Wormington & Bollinger today.

Many people have never heard of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), which should come as no real surprise. The rare skin condition is most often triggered by certain medications, many of which are common over-the-counter drugs. When left untreated or in severe cases, SJS may become Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an extremely deadly condition. The two were once thought to be separate conditions, but recent studies have shown that they are considered part of a continuum. SJS is the less severe end of the disease, whereas TEN represents the often fatal end of the spectrum.

SJS typically begins with a fever and flu-like symptoms, which is why it can be so hard to diagnose. In fact, SJS is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. Most patients begin to notice skin sores, blisters, and peeling skin within a few days of the flu-like symptoms. Some individuals may develop erosions that look like a severe hot water burn. This is why SJS patients often wind up in burn units, as these healthcare providers have the tools, resources, and knowledge to treat such severe skin lesions. The skin blisters typically begin on the face and chest, quickly spreading to other parts of the body. Most people who experience SJS also sustain damage to the mucous membranes, including the inner lining of the mouth and airways. This can be extremely painful and make it quite hard to swallow and breathe, as you can imagine.

What Else is SJS Referred to As?

 SJS is a very serious allergic reaction that causes the body to burn from the inside out. In very severe cases, the skin will peel off in sheets. This life-threatening condition is considered an autoimmune, exfoliative disorder of the skin. While many people have never heard of the disease, those that have been affected by it are all too familiar. In addition to SJS and TEN, this skin syndrome is sometimes referred to by the following names:

• Dermatostomatitis
• Ectodermosis Erosiva Pluriorificialis
• Erythema Multiforme Exudativum
• Erythema Polymorphe
• Lyell’s Syndrome
• Febrile Mucocutaneous Syndrome

If you have ever heard of the above conditions, make note they are the same as SJS/TEN. In many cases, doctors and drug manufacturers are to blame for patients developing SJS because they failed to warn people of potential drug interactions. One of the best examples is combing certain NSAIDS with over-the-counter cough, cold, and allergy medications. While not all drugs within these categories can lead to SJS, it is important patients are aware of the risks. Certain drug combinations like the above can increase the probability of SJS or TEN, something not enough people are aware of.

If you developed SJS as the result of taking certain medications prescribed by your doctor, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a serious skin condition that results in a red/purple rash all over the skin. This rash, sometimes referred to as erythema multiforme, may also be coupled with a fever and a range of other flu-like symptoms. SJS most commonly occurs as a result of an adverse reaction to certain medications. While the initial onset of SJS is typically not very severe, if it is left untreated it can become deadly. In extreme cases SJS can turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which is a severe life-threatening disorder. SJS and TEN are differentiated by how much of the skin’s surface has been affected by the rash. According to a report published in 1993, SJS affects less than 10% of the skin surface area, whereas TEN affects more than 30%.

SJS and TEN are often used interchangeably, but it is important to note that TEN is far more serious than SJS on its own. For this reason, it is of the utmost importance you seek medical attention if you have any of the below symptoms:

• Rash, blisters, or red splotches on the skin
• Constant fever
• Blisters in mouth, eyes, ears, nose, and genital region
• Swelling of eyelids
• Red eyes
• Flu-like symptoms
• Recent history of taking a prescription drug (such as Lamictal) or over-the-counter medication (like ibuprofen)

SJS can be extremely hard to diagnose, especially because many of the symptoms of reminiscent of other conditions and diseases. If your medical practitioner believes you have SJS, it is imperative you stop taking the drug in question right away. This is the first step to prevent further complications and stop the condition from worsening and turning into TEN.

Some of the medications that are known triggers of SJS include:

• Anti-gout medications
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for pain
• Penicillin and other drugs in that family
• Anticonvulsants
• Drugs used to treat narcolepsy and other sleep disorders
• TNF-alpha antagonists

If you have been prescribed any of the above and notice any symptoms associated with SJS, please contact your physician right away. SJS can become extremely serious if left untreated, even leading to death.

Treat SJS Immediately

If SJS is not treated right from the start, it can progress and turn into TEN. This disorder may then lead to a wide range of very serious conditions, including:

• Blindness
• Hearing loss
• Organ failure
• Death

Treatment for SJS/TEN will depend on the severity of your particular case. In some cases, patients will require hospitalization in burn centers or the surgical removal of damaged tissue (referred to as debridement). Those with SJS can take weeks or as long as several months to fully recover from their symptoms. Patients with SJS are literally burning from the inside out, which means a team of specialists who have experience caring for those with SJS are required.

If you or someone you love has developed SJS after taking a specific drug, please contact the SJS lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger. Our McKinney SJS lawyers have represented countless patients in lawsuits and are prepared to do the same for you.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious skin condition that can be extremely deadly. In the majority of cases the skin reaction is triggered by specific medications, including hundreds of over-the-counter and prescription drugs that are commonly prescribed. In the event SJS goes undetected or is left untreated, it can result in toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and even death. Approximately 15 percent of all people diagnosed with SJS have fatal cases. For this reason it is imperative you seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the symptoms of SJS. If caught early, SJS has a much higher chance of being treated and allowing you to move forward.

Before we look at some of the ins and outs of pursuing anSJS lawsuit, let’s briefly go over the most common symptoms of SJS as a refresher:

• Facial or tongue swelling
• Hives
• Intense skin pain
• Red or purple skin rash
• Skin lesions
• Blisters on the skin
  • Specifically around the mouth, nose, eyes, and genitals
• Shedding of skin

Please keep in mind that many of these symptoms can result in blindness and deformity if gone undetected. Drug manufacturers all across the country are facing lawsuits because of a failure to include sufficient warning about the possibility of SJS. If you or a loved one has developed SJS after taking an over-the-counter drug or prescription medication, please contact our McKinney SJS lawyer right away.

Tips for Pursuing an SJS Lawsuit

Over the last several years there have been hundreds of lawsuits filed against drug manufacturers and are a result of people developing SJS because of a specific drug reaction. SJS is a serious health concern that should not be taken lightly. In order to protect others and ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve, it is imperative we properly address mistakes made by drug manufacturers. We have discovered that numerous large drug manufacturers have acted irresponsibly and can be held negligent for their actions.

Many different medications can lead to SJS, including anticonvulsants, anti-inflammatory medications, and antibiotics. If you notice a strange skin reaction you have never had before, we encourage you to seek medical attention and contact your McKinney dangerous drug attorney. In many cases individuals are unsure which medication caused the skin reaction, which is something we can help you with. Wormington & Bollinger is currently taking on new SJS cases and are here to answer any questions you may have. We understand how overwhelming and scary this diagnosis can be, and we are here to help. Drug manufacturers cannot get away with their negligence, especially when it results in injury or death to innocent people. For more information on SJS or to pursue an SJS lawsuit, please contact us today.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a fatal condition that results in severe skin reactions, including rashes and blisters that can progress to third degree burns. Of the many reasons for SJS, one of them is medical negligence. The root cause for a lot of these cases is an adverse drug reaction.

The more severe form of SJS is also known as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). SJS/TEN were once rare, but that may have been the result of a general lack of awareness. Hence, our understanding has increased, but the misdiagnosis and overlooked symptoms are still prevalent.

Unfortunately for many, SJS occurs almost twice as often in males as females and more often in the young than in seniors. The lifelong effects of SJS can be detrimental and life altering for the person afflicted and their loved ones. If you find yourself or a loved in a position where due to medical negligence a diagnosis of SJS was missed or even diagnosed, know your legal options.

The bottom line is that it is the doctor’s responsibility to explain all risks and benefits of any medication before prescribing it. Furthermore, some medical professionals are missing the diagnosis due to their own lack of knowledge or improper medical practices. Discussing your case with a lawyer can help you understand the difference between bad luck and inattention.

As medical malpractice attorneys, our goal will be to thoroughly review your case and establish probable cause. If the diagnosis of SJS was made due to idiopathic reasons, meaning that the person had a random reaction to an unknown cause, then there is nobody at fault. In the recent decade, SJS awareness has increased and our mission is to help you find some closure to a devastating disease.

In the event, we do find a relationship between a prescription drug and your disease due to an underlying condition, your physician should have known or if your doctor failed to tell you the side effect of the medication, then you may be eligible to join the lawsuit. Malpractice attorneys are not trying to push physicians out of business, but we are trying to prevent what happened to you from happening to anyone else.

We do advise all of our clients that the process may be time consuming and emotionally stressful. There is no guarantee what may or may not happen in a courtroom or in a trial, especially with a jury, but we promise to devote our resources, time, and compassion to your case and justice.

Another reason to seek a medical malpractice attorney after the diagnosis of SJS is that the medical bills are long, complex, and extensive. Some individuals will need lifelong medical assistance, i.e. vision problems, dry skin, emotional distress. Having an attorney who knows the condition and medical jargon.

If you or a loved one experience flu-like symptoms and a rash after beginning any medication, even if it is an aspirin, please seek medical attention right away. As we further our fight to help as many as we can, at Wormington & Bolllinger, we put your health and mental well-being first. Contact us today if you have any additional concerns or questions.

For many people being diagnosed with Steven Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is not limited to the disease, but continues to impact their daily life afterwards. At McKinney Law Firm we are dedicated to keeping you up to date with everything you need to know about SJS.

Today we will share with you some stories of individuals affected by SJS and their stories. Our first story is about Dinushka. Before being diagnosed with SJS, Dinushka was blessed with beautiful looks and hair that were both negatively impacted by the disease.

Dinushka was diagnosed with SJS after the use of a simple, over the counter pain killer that contained ibuprofen. It was not the first time she had taken this medication, so when she experienced flu-like symptoms, she went to her physician who diagnosed her with simple viral conjunctivitis.

Soon after she went home, she began to feel a burning sensation in her skin. Then, not before long, Dinushka was in the hospital, unrecognizable to her loved ones. Her skin had been shaved off and she was wrapped, like a mummy, with bandages head to toe.

For Dinushka, the terror did not end there, she also lost her vision and could not see her parents when they came to visit her. The medical staff had warned the family her chances of survival were slim, and she would most likely not make a full recovery.

However, to everyone’s surprise, Dinushka recovered and accepted all her skin grafts and medications. Furthermore, her vision began to come back. It has been over four years since Dinushka was diagnosed, and today she continues to experience severe dry eyes, a chronic cough, and extremely sensitive skin.

Our second survivor is Gene Sauers, who was diagnosed SJS eleven years ago while he was set a front-nine record at the Boeing Classic in Snoqualmie, Washington. In 2006, Sauers shot a 30 through the tournament’s first nine holes, topping the 31-stroke record that had been held by more than twelve golfers since the tournament’s inception in 2005.

Initially, Sauers felt pain in his left shoulder that was misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors presumed with his career alongside symptoms, that diagnosis made the most sense. The first sign of SJS Sauers had was a black mark resembling frost bite on his arm.

Within a day of seeing the black mark, Sauers’ skin starting peeling and burning, and he was rushed to the Duke University Hospital. At this time the appropriate tests were run, and after the diagnosis of SJS, he was given a 25% chance of survival.

Luckily for Sauers, by 2011, he was playing professional golf again. He proceeded to win the 2016 U.S. Senior Open, and has been inducted into the Georgia Golf Hall of Fame.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) has calculated that the chances of disease recurrence in adults can be as low as 3%. Please, dear readers, if you have recently taken a drug, and you experience a flu-like syndrome with or without a rash, we urge you to rush to the emergency department. For all your SJS and malpractice questions, please contact us today.