I am suffering from Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Complements of the season. My doctor after seeing the rashes in my body diagnosed that I have StevensJohnson syndrome and on admission now. Kindly enlighten your teeming readers about this issue

Catherine X Thanks Catherine for your question and wishing you quick recovery. According to experts “StevensJohnson syndrome is a rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. It’s usually a reaction to a medication or an infection. Often, it 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, sheds and then heals. StevensJohnson syndrome is a medical emergency that usually requires hospitalization. Treatment focuses on eliminating the underlying cause, controlling symptoms and minimizing complications.”

What are the Symptoms?

1. Fever 2. Unexplained skin pain

3. A red or purple skin rash that spreads

4. Blisters on the skin and the mucous membranes of your mouth, nose, eyes and genitals

5. Shedding of the skin within days after blisters form 6. Sore mouth and throat 7. Fatigue 8. Cough 9. Burning eyes

What are the Causes? What factors? are the

widespread

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare and unpredictable reaction, but usually the condition is triggered by a medication or an infection.

Drugs that can cause StevensJohnson syndrome include:

• Anti-gout medications, such as allopurinol

• Medications to treat seizures and mental illness (anticonvulsants and antipsychotics), with added risk if one also undergo radiation therapy.

• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve)

• Medications to fight infection, such as penicillin

Infections that can cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

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

Risk

Factors that increase risk of developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

1. An HIV infection. Among people with HIV, the incidence of StevensJohnson syndrome is about 100 times greater than among the general population.

2. A weakened immune system. If one has a weakened immune system, one may have an increased risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. The immune system can be affected by an organ transplant, HIV/AIDS and autoimmune diseases.

3. A history of StevensJohnson syndrome. If one had a medication-related form of this condition, one is at risk of a recurrence if the drug is used again.

4. A family history of StevensJohnson syndrome.

What are the Complications?

• Secondary skin infection (cellulitis). Cellulitis can lead to life-threatening complications, including sepsis.

• Blood infection (sepsis). Sepsis occurs when bacteria from an infection enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body.

• Eye problems. The rash caused by Stevens-Johnson syndrome can lead to inflammation in the eyes. In mild cases, this may cause irritation and dry eyes. In severe cases, it can lead to extensive tissue damage and scarring that results in visual impairment and, rarely, blindness.

• Lung involvement. The condition may lead to acute respiratory failure.

• Permanent skin damage. When the skin grows back following Stevens-Johnson syndrome, it may have abnormal bumps and coloring. And may have scars. Lasting skin problems may cause hair to fall out, and fingernails and toenails may not grow normally.

What are the Treatment Options?

• Stopping nonessential medications; the first and most important step in treating Stevens-Johnson syndrome is to discontinue any medications that may be causing it.

• Fluid replacement nutrition.

• Wound care. Cool, wet compresses will help soothe blisters while they heal. • Eye care. • Medications and