Each year, approximately 2 to 7 per million people suffer from SJS or its more fatal form, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Here are a few facts to know about Stevens-Johnson syndrome causes and what you can do if you’ve been diagnosed with this condition.
Medications That Can Cause SJS
While many medications can trigger SJS, some of the most common culprits include:
- Allopurinol
- Nevirapine
- Medicine used to treat seizures, such as lamotrigine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine
- Antibiotics like minocycline, penicillins, quinolones, cephalosporins
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that contain oxicam, such as piroxicam, meloxicam
- Sulfamethoxazole
- Sulfasalazine
When on multiple drugs, it may be challenging to isolate the drug triggering a reaction. However, after reviewing your medical history, your doctor and medical experts can help you identify the most likely culprit.
People at Higher Risk for SJS
SJS can affect people of any age, sex, and race if they have a genetic predisposition. However, SJS is more likely to occur in:
- People with HIV or AIDS
- People with certain types of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)
- Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy due to weakened immune systems
- Lupus patients
- People who have had adverse reactions to certain medications
- Certain subpopulations, like children, females, African Americans and Asians
Currently, studies on genetic factors associated with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome reflect that people of Asian descent are at a higher risk for infection. Women are also more likely to get SJS than men.
Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
Within a few days or weeks of taking certain medications, you may begin to experience flu-like symptoms. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome causes mild to severe symptoms such as:
- Coughing
- Blistering
- Peeling of the skin
- Fever
- Sores in the eyes, mouth, throat and genitals
- Red or purple rashes
- Trouble breathing and swallowing
- Fatigue
- Burning eyes
SJS skin rash symptoms often begin in the upper part of the body before spreading. Once they start, the symptoms spread quickly, so you need to stop taking any medication you believe may have caused the reaction and contact a healthcare provider as soon as you or your loved one suspects you having an allergic or SJS reaction.
Possible Complications of SJS
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome causes severe complications in some instances, including:
- Sepsis
- Organ failure
- Blindness
- Scarring when there’s mucosal involvement
- Permanent skin discoloration
- Death
When SJS reaches an acute phase, it can be catastrophic. It affects the heart, liver, and renal system, which can lead to organ failure. Once the organs begin to malfunction, the result can be fatal.
How a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Attorney Can Help
If you've suffered from SJS after taking a prescription medication, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
An experienced SJS attorney can help by investigating the cause of your SJS, checking medical records, and gathering expert testimony. Your attorney can also file an SJS lawsuit against the drug manufacturer if appropriate, and then either negotiate a settlement or take your case to trial.
FAQs
How Is SJS Treated?
Treatment focuses on stopping the triggering medication, providing supportive care, and preventing complications. Severe cases may require care in a burn unit.
Is There a Time Limit for Pursuing Justice After Getting SJS?
You only have a limited time to sue a pharmaceutical company for the drug that caused you SJS. A seasoned pharmaceutical litigation attorney can guide you on the statute of limitations for your particular state and what steps to pursue going forward.
Consult a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Attorney Today
If you have been diagnosed with SJS, a drug defect or inadequate warning could be the culprit. An experienced SJS attorney can help you build a case for the compensation you deserve for your losses.
The skilled team at Dunn Sheehan has worked on many SJS cases across the nation and obtained considerable compensation for many SJS patients. Contact us if you or your loved one has suffered harm due to SJS today.