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Stevens-Johnson syndrome is the most severe case of erythema multiforme, which can directly threaten the health and life of the patient. Especially if it covers more than 30% of the epidermis. For this reason, we decided to check what the direct causes of Stevens-Johnson syndrome are, and what the treatment of the disease looks like.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome – causes
Erythema multiforme may be mild or very severe. The heaviest variety is known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. It characterizes patients with large skin lesions, including erythema, and blisters, which may cover up to 30% of the body, which may be a direct cause of life threatening. Unfortunately, the exact cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome is unknown. Its direct causes are considered to be toxic drug reactions and infections.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome – symptoms
The symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome are not the most pleasant. Unstable blisters appear on the skin and mucous membranes. After their rupture, erosions are formed. Most often, the blisters are located around the mouth, which makes it difficult to take food; and the genitals, leading to adhesions. In addition to the visible skin changes, there may also be high fever, muscle pain and general weakness of the body. Drugs also cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome – diagnosis
Stevens-Johnson syndrome can only be determined by a specialist in skin disease. Usually, it takes into account the clinical picture, the percentage of mucosal involvement, as well as the immunopathological examination of the skin section. If the disease covers 10% of the skin surface, it can be called Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and in the case of 30% – toxic epidermal necrolysis. Intermediate numbers show that the symptoms of both diseases overlap. Before starting treatment, your doctor should check your symptoms for hives, Kawasaki disease, pemphigus vulgaris or foot-and-mouth disease.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome – treatment
Treatment of Stevens-Johnson syndrome should take place in a hospital under the supervision of dermatologists. Mainly used are ointments with glucocorticoids, as well as antibiotics with cyclosporine A and antihistamines. It is very important to discontinue agents that may have caused erythema multiforme. Pain medications and burn treatments are also found to be useful, and may provide relief for the patient.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome – complications
In Stevens-Johnson syndrome, there are often serious complications, mainly related to secondary skin infections. The location of the erythema is very significant. If the lesions are near the conjunctiva, serious eye damage can occur. Patients with erythema multiforme also have problems with thermoregulation and disturbances in water and electrolyte balance. In addition, they may suffer from problems related to the digestive, urinary and respiratory systems.
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