Steven Johnson syndrome
About Steven Johnson syndrome
A life-threatening allergic reaction involving a rash with skin breakdown. Steven Johnson syndrome involves very serious inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes and requires aggressive treatment and hospitalization. The skin becomes red, and blisters and sloughs after dying. Steven-Johnson is an extension of a rash known as erythema multiforme. The disorder is usually an allergic reaction to medications or infections. The most common medications involved are sulfa drugs, tetracycline, amoxicillin, ampicillin, anti-seizure medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs/NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) and allopurinol.Symptoms
Multiple skin blisters, sore skin spots and ulcerations in the mouth, swelling and redness of the eyes, blisters or skin rash in the area of the vagina or genitals, itching, fever, general ill feeling, joint aches.Tests & Diagnostics
A history including very careful review of new medications and physical exam will be performed. Tests to identify dehydration and other damage done may be performed. Rarely a skin biopsy is performed.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment includes: hospitalization, intensive burn care treatment, and intravenous fluids. Patients can become dangerously dehydrated and acquire infections of their skin lesions.Medical specialties
Dermatology · Pediatric Critical Care Medicine · Critical Care Medicine · Pediatric Dermatology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Steven Johnson syndrome.