If you’ve taken medication and had an adverse reaction that began with a rash and flu-like symptoms, you may have developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). But what is SJS vs. TEN, and how can each of these conditions impact your health?
Understanding the Difference Between SJS and TEN
SJS and TEN are severe reactions to medications that result in the development of a rash and blisters on the skin and mucous membranes.
Although doctors make a distinction between SJS vs. TEN, they are essentially the same condition. The only difference comes down to the severity of the symptoms.
If the detachment of the top layer of your skin is less than 10% of your total body surface area, you will be diagnosed with SJS. If it’s greater than 10%, the diagnosis will likely be TEN.
In other ways, these two conditions are the same. They both cause symptoms that include:
- Fever
- Body aches
- Skin pain
- Rash or blotches on the skin
- Cough
Because SJS and TEN affect your mucous membranes in areas like your eyes, genitals, and mouth, you could experience pain during urination, difficulty eating, and trouble opening your eyes because of blisters.
The Severe Health Consequences of SJS and TEN
But what about the health consequences of SJS vs. TEN? These are similar, too, though the more serious nature of TEN means that it is more likely to cause long-term health complications.
Infections are the main cause for concern. Peeling skin and blisters make you susceptible to bacteria and viruses. Sepsis is a real risk. You can also develop a respiratory infection like pneumonia.
Another potential complication of SJS or TEN is vision loss. This can occur if your eye membranes are severely affected by blisters and inflammation.
How Drug Reactions Lead to SJS and TEN
It’s not entirely clear why taking certain drugs can lead to SJS or TEN, but scientists believe these conditions can develop if the drugs and your immune system clash.
The types of medications that most commonly cause SJS and TEN are antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-seizure medications, and anti-gout drugs.
Legal Advocacy in Recovery and Compensation
If you have developed SJS or TEN, you may be able to file a claim against the drug’s manufacturer, especially if the manufacturer did not provide the required warnings or if it failed in its responsibility to create a safe product. To do this, you need an SJS attorney to help you.
Drug liability cases are highly complex because they require experts to corroborate scientific and medical evidence. They’re also tough to win because claimants have to go up against pharmaceutical companies. With a TEN and SJS lawyer, you can focus on your health while your lawyer gathers evidence and negotiates for compensation.
Legal Options for Victims of SJS and TEN in Texas
An SJS and TEN lawyer can help you decide whether to negotiate a settlement or pursue a lawsuit against the pharmaceutical company. A settlement will allow you to recover your losses more quickly. If the other party doesn’t want to negotiate, however, the only option may be to file a lawsuit and take the case to court.
FAQ
What Compensation Can I Receive in an SJS or TEN Claim?
You can receive compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. If you need to receive future medical care, you can claim that, too, along with loss of earning potential if you can’t return to work.
Do I Need a Lawyer for an SJS or TEN Claim?
It’s not a requirement to have an attorney, but you shouldn’t pursue a dangerous drug claim on your own. You’ll be dealing with a ruthless pharmaceutical company and its legal team, so without legal representation to put you on an even footing, you might end up with a low settlement or no settlement at all.
How Are SJS and TEN Treated?
Most cases of SJS and TEN are treated in hospitals, often in the ICU or burn unit. Patients might receive IV fluids and antibiotics to prevent infections.
Trust Experienced SJS Attorneys With Your Case
If you have experienced SJS or TEN because of a medication you took, you may have a legal case against the manufacturer. At Dunn Sheehan, we can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our Texas team for a free consultation.