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VOLUME 25 , ISSUE 5 ( May, 2021 ) > List of Articles

REVIEW ARTICLE

Drug-related Stevens–Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Review

Rohini Arora, Shikha Panwar

Citation Information : Arora R, Panwar S. Drug-related Stevens–Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Review. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021; 25 (5):575-579.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10071-23826

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 01-05-2021

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2021; The Author(s).


Abstract

Introduction: Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare, life-threatening, allergic reactions affecting the skin and mucous membranes. SJS is considered to be a milder form with less than 10% of body surface area (BSA) involvement. We report successful management of two cases of SJS and TEN. Firstly, a case of a 24-year-old female who presented with rashes over face, chest, and upper limbs after the oral intake of ciprofloxacin and local application of moxifloxacin eye drops. She developed high-grade fever and difficulty in breathing requiring intubation and lung-protective mechanical ventilation and was treated with high-dose methylprednisolone, azithromycin, soframycin skin dressings, and topical ocular antibiotics. Secondly, another case of a 16-year-old female who developed bullous eruptions over the trunk, arms, hands, face, and sole involving 60% of BSA, after oral intake of albendazole. She was diagnosed as TEN and successfully managed with sterile silver nitrate, soframycin dressings, and antibiotics. Key message: Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are life-threatening, allergic reactions affecting the skin and mucous membranes. Early identification, withdrawal of the suspected drug, and early transfer to a specialized center decrease mortality.


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