Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious skin disorder usually caused by medication reactions. It’s often described as a “rash,” but that makes it sound much less serious than it is. While a rash is the most visible symptom, people who develop SJS and aren’t treated in time can develop sepsis and multiple organ failure, both of which are often fatal. Here’s what you need to know about this dangerous condition.
1. What Are the First Symptoms of SJS?
SJS typically starts out with mild symptoms and then becomes progressively worse. The earliest symptoms might make you think you’re just struggling with allergies or coming down with the flu:
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Burning sensation in your eyes
After the early phase of the reaction, you may start to experience more severe symptoms:
- A red or purple rash that spreads
- Unexplained pain over large areas of skin
- Blistering lesions on mucous membranes
- Peeling skin
If you notice these symptoms, you should seek emergency medical care. If SJS continues to progress, it can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, sepsis, shock, multiple organ failure, and death.
2. What Causes SJS?
The majority view of the medical literature reflects a belief that SJS and TEN are typically caused by medications.
3. How Is SJS Diagnosed and Treated?
It can be difficult to diagnose SJS in its early stages. Usually, a provider will get your full medical history, paying special attention to the medications you’re taking. If they think there’s a possibility you’re suffering from another skin issue, they may do a skin biopsy to get an exact diagnosis.
If your care team determines you have SJS, you will need intensive care. Usually, treatment includes the following:
- Immediately stopping the medication
- IV fluids
- Treatment of skin blisters
- Immunoglobulin or steroid treatment to limit the infection
- Artificial tears, steroid drops, and other treatments for eye inflammation
If your eyes are severely affected, you might need more extensive treatment once the acute SJS reaction is under control. In some cases, you might need a corneal transplant or another corrective procedure.
4. Which Medications Are Commonly Linked to SJS?
Many kinds of medications can cause SJS. However, there are some classes of drugs that are more likely to cause SJS than others:
- Some antibiotics, including penicillins and sulfa drugs
- Some anticonvulsants
- Medications for gout and kidney stones
- Medications for managing HIV
- Some anti-inflammatory drugs, including over-the-counter medications
Some people who develop SJS get it a few days after starting a drug — and sometimes even sooner. However, in some cases (and especially with anticonvulsants), it can take up to eight weeks for symptoms to appear.
5. Can You Sue for Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Caused by a Drug?
If a pharmaceutical company did not adequately warn you of the risk of developing SJS, or if the drug was defective, you may have a product liability case against the manufacturer.
However, this is a complex area of the law, and each case is unique. The best way to know if you have a realistic chance of winning a lawsuit is to get in touch with an SJS lawyer.
FAQ
When Should I Call a Doctor if I Think I Have SJS?
Because SJS can be deadly, you should call your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately if you think you have it.
Can You Heal Completely From SJS?
It is possible to make a full recovery, but each case is different. From the time the initial reaction appears, there is no way to accurately predict if you will fully recover from SJS.
Have You Been Impacted by Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
SJS can be intensely painful and scary. And for some people, it causes lasting complications even after it’s been successfully treated. Drug companies that fail to warn patients of potential dangers should be held accountable, and you shouldn’t have to deal with the fallout of SJS alone.
At Dunn Sheehan, we’re proud to stand up for the rights of people like you who have been harmed by negligent drug companies. Reach out today to schedule your free case consultation with an SJS attorney.