Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

DEFINITION

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare, serious disorder of your skin and mucous membranes. It’s usually a reaction to a medication or an infection. Often, Stevens-Johnson syndrome begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters. Then the top layer of the affected skin dies and sheds.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a medical emergency that usually requires hospitalization. Treatment focuses on eliminating the underlying cause, controlling symptoms and minimizing complications.

Recovery after Stevens-Johnson syndrome can take weeks to months, depending on the severity of your condition. If it was caused by a medication, you’ll need to permanently avoid that drug and others closely related to it.

CAUSES

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare and unpredictable reaction. Your doctor may not be able to identify its exact cause, but usually the condition is triggered by a medication or an infection.

Medication and therapy causes

Drugs that can cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

• Anti-gout medications, such as allopurinol
• Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve)
• Medications to fight infection, such as penicillin
• Medications to treat seizures or mental illness (anticonvulsants and antipsychotics)
• Radiation therapy

Infectious causes

Infections that can cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

• Herpes (herpes simplex or herpes zoster)
• Pneumonia
• HIV
• Hepatitis

SYMPTOMS

Stevens-Johnson syndrome symptoms include:

• Facial swelling
• Tongue swelling
• Hives
• Skin pain
• A red or purple skin rash that spreads within hours to days
• Blisters on your skin and the mucous membranes of your mouth, nose, eyes and genitals
• Shedding of your skin

If you have Stevens-Johnson syndrome, several days before the rash develops you may experience:

• Fever
• Sore mouth and throat
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Burning eyes

When to see a doctor

Stevens-Johnson syndrome requires immediate medical attention. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms:

• Unexplained widespread skin pain
• Facial swelling
• Blisters on your skin and mucous membranes
• Hives
• Tongue swelling
• A red or purplish skin rash that spreads
• Shedding of your skin