Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare but very serious skin condition that causes reddish lesions throughout the body and other changes, such as breathing difficulties and fever, that can endanger the life of the affected person.
This syndrome usually occurs due to an allergic reaction to certain medications, especially penicillin or other antibiotics, so symptoms may appear up to 3 days after taking the medicine.
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome is curable.
- But treatment should be started as soon as possible with hospitalization to avoid serious complications.
- Such as widespread infections or damage to internal organs.
- That can make treatment difficult and life-threatening.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The first symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome are very similar to those of a flu, as they include fatigue, cough, muscle aches or headaches, for example; however, over time red spots appear on the body, which eventually spread throughout the skin..
In addition, other symptoms, such as:
When these symptoms appear, especially up to 3 days after taking a new medicine, it is recommended to go to the emergency room quickly to assess the problem and begin appropriate treatment.
Diagnosis of Stevens-Johnson syndrome is made by observing lesions, which contain specific characteristics, such as colors and shapes; other tests, such as blood, urine, or injury, may be necessary on suspicion of other secondary infections.
Although quite rare, this syndrome is more common in people who are treated with any of the following remedies:
In addition to medication use, some infections can also cause the syndrome, including those caused by a virus, such as herpes, HIV, or hepatitis A.
People with weakened immune systems or other cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome also have an increased risk.
Treatment of Stevens-Johnson syndrome should be done in the hospital and usually begins with discontinuation of use of any medication that is not essential to treat a chronic disease, as it can cause or worsen symptoms of the syndrome.
During hospitalization, it may also be necessary to inject serum directly into the vein to replace fluids lost due to a lack of skin at the sites of the injury.In addition, to reduce the risk of infection, skin sores should be treated daily by a nurse.
To reduce the discomfort of lesions, cold water compresses and neutral creams may be used to moisturize the skin, as well as to take medications evaluated and prescribed by your doctor, such as antihistamines, corticosteroids or antibiotics for example.
Learn more about treating Stevens-Johnson syndrome.