Stevens-Johnson Syndrome




Introduction

 Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious disorder that affects the skin and mucous membranes. It is typically triggered by a reaction to medication or, less commonly, an infection. SJS starts with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters, leading to the top layer of the skin to die and shed.

Symptoms

  • Flu-like symptoms (fever, sore throat, fatigue)
  • Painful red or purplish rash that spreads
  • Blisters on the skin and mucous membranes
  • Shedding of the skin

Causes

  • Medications (antibiotics, anticonvulsants, NSAIDs)
  • Infections (herpes, pneumonia)

Treatment

  1. Hospitalization: Patients are typically treated in a hospital, often in an intensive care unit or a burn center.
  2. Discontinuation of the Trigger: Immediate cessation of the suspected medication or treatment of the underlying infection.
  3. Supportive Care: Includes pain management, fluid replacement, wound care, and nutritional support.
  4. Medications: Sometimes corticosteroids or immunoglobulins are used, but their effectiveness is controversial.
  5. Interdisciplinary Approach: Involves dermatologists, ophthalmologists, infectious disease specialists, and other healthcare professionals to manage various complications.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial to improving outcomes and preventing severe complications.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Eye Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Image
Eye Age-Related Macular Degeneration Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing vision loss and blindness. As the name suggests, AMD is more common among older adults, and its prevalence increases with age. In this article, we will delve into the details of AMD, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies. What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration? AMD is a condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. The macula is responsible for sharp, clear vision, allowing us to read, drive, and recognize faces. AMD causes damage to the macula, leading to vision loss and blindness. Types of AMD: There are two main types of AMD: 1. Dry AMD: This is the most common form of AMD, accounting for about 90% of cases. Dry AMD is caused by the gradual deterioration of the macula, leading to a buildup of waste material and damage to the retina. 2. Wet AMD...
Read more

Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) details and treatment

Image
  Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) :  An autoimmune disorder that causes painful blistering on the skin and mucous membranes. It can be life-threatening without treatment. Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by painful blisters and erosions on the skin and mucous membranes. The condition arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks proteins in the skin and mucous membranes, leading to blister formation. Treatment Goals and Methods: Blister Management : Decrease blister formation. Promote healing of existing blisters and erosions. Prevent infections in the affected areas. Medications : Corticosteroids : High doses of corticosteroids like prednisone or prednisolone are the core treatment to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. Immunosuppressants : These drugs help to further suppress the immune system and may be used in conjunction with corticosteroids. Infection Control : Antibiotics and antifungal medications are prescribed to control or...
Read more