Stevens Johnson Syndrome Information

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a serious medical condition commonly caused by an allergic reaction to drugs. The drugs associated with Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) are antibiotics (penicillin and sulfa's), anti-convulsants, and pain relievers. Prescription pain relievers, such as Bextra, Celebrex, and Dilantin, as well as over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Children's Motrin, and Children's Advil, have reportedly been associated with Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome patients suffer from inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes. Mucous membranes are present in many organs throughout the body, such as the eyes, digestive system, lungs and respiratory system. It is an immune-complex-mediated hypersensitivity (allergic) condition. It is a severe expression of the condition known as erythema multiforme and is a lesser form of the condition known as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). SJS is a serious disorder with potential for severe morbidity and in some cases, it can be fatal.

Early stage Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) symptoms are similar to some infectious diseases and respiratory infections, like headache, malaise and cough with purulent sputum (secretions of lungs, bronchi or trachea).
Rashes could begin as macules, then develops into papules, bullae or confluent erythema (Erythema is redness of the skin caused by increased blood flow to the skin capillaries). As the disorder worsens, the rash can be confined to one area of the body (typically the chest or back) or it can spread to other areas. Skin lesions can develop. Typical lesions have the appearance of a bull's eye target. These lesions may bulge and rupture, leaving the flesh under the skin bare. The skin can become susceptible to infection.

In the most advanced cases, Stevens Johnson Syndrome symptoms can cause blindness, due to lesions on the cornea. Patients can have an inability to eat or drink resulting from lesions in the mouth and digestive system. Scarring can occur in the lungs, causing breathing difficulties.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Stevens Johnson Syndrome, it is possible that the condition was caused by an allergic reaction to a drug. Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to notify physicians and patients of any potential harmful side effects of drugs. Please contact us immediately so we can help you in finding an attorney to help you with your potential case.

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