SJS Attorneys
Expert Legal Representation For SJS Victims
Stevens-Johnson syndrome, also known as SJS or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), is a rare but serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. It is caused by a genetic predisposition to have an adverse reaction to certain medications. Injuries resulting from Stevens-Johnson syndrome may entitle the victim to compensation, and our SJS attorneys have unparalleled experience in building these cases.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: An Overview
The amount of skin involvement determines whether the disease is called SJS or TEN. If more than 30% of the total body surface area is involved, it is called toxic epidermal necrolysis or the acronym TEN.
SJS/TEN is a very serious condition that causes blistering and sloughing of the skin and mucous membranes. The effect is similar to a severe full-thickness burn. The body becomes at risk for fluid loss, infection, organ failure, blindness, and death.
Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
The initial symptoms of SJS and TEN can include rash, fever, sore throat and mouth, fatigue, and burning eyes. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:
- Widespread skin pain
- Red or purple rash spreading over the body
- Blisters on the skin, mouth, and mucous membranes of the eyes and genitals
- Shedding of the skin (“erosions”) once blisters form, leaving raw skin
Secondary symptoms can include infection in areas where the skin has peeled away, leaving exposed flesh.
Causes of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
SJS and TEN are considered by many medical experts to be exclusively caused by pharmaceutical drugs. Genetic factors, such as certain alleles, may increase a patient's risk of developing SJS and TEN.
Adverse Drug Reactions
Visit our SJS resources page for more information on drugs associated with SJS and TEN.
The drugs most associated with SJS include:
- Advil
- Carbamazepine
- Lamotrigine
- Phenytoin
- Zithromax
- Anti-gout medications
- Anti-convulsants and anti-psychotics
- Sulfonamides
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)
- Antibiotics
Infections
Some of the most high-risk infectious conditions for developing SJS/TEN are:
- HIV
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Cancer
- Other weakened immune system or connective tissue diseases
Treatment Options for SJS
Most treatment for SJS/TEN is supportive. The first step is to stop using whatever medication is causing the adverse reaction.
Supportive care can include:
- IV fluid replacement to prevent electrolyte imbalance.
- High-calorie food — by nasogastric tube if necessary — to increase energy and promote healing.
- Use of non-adhesive dressings on blisters and exposed skin.
- IV immunoglobulins if there is extensive fluid or blood loss.
- Skin grafts or membrane grafts (for the eyes) if needed.
- Antibiotics or cyclosporine for infections.
- IV steroids to prevent swelling of affected mucous membranes.
- Treatment in a burn unit or intensive care unit if too much body surface is involved.
In cases involving the mouth or nasal tissue, oxygen therapy may be necessary to support the patient’s breathing. Complications of SJS/TEN can include pneumonia, sepsis, and death in up to 30%-80% of TEN cases.
If you need legal advice regarding Stevens-Johnson syndrome from expert SJS attorneys, contact Dunn Sheehan, LLP at 214.253.0715 or make an appointment for a consultation today.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Resources
Whether it affects you or a loved one, SJS can take a toll on people of all walks of life. The articles below offer helpful information and insights to help you and your family navigate these trying times. Visit our SJS resources page for more information, including PDF downloads and links to other organizations that offer relief and assistance.
Top U.S. Burn Units
Johns Hopkins Burn Unit
The Mayo Clinic
Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America
The Cleveland Clinic
Helpful Articles
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
Burn unit care of Stevens Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis: A survey
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have after an SJS reaction to pursue litigation?
Because states often have different deadlines (statutes of limitation) for filing lawsuits, there is no one answer to this question. It is best to take action as soon as possible when diagnosed with a serious illness like SJS or TEN.
It can become more difficult to earn compensation as time passes. Reach out to our team to find out if you have grounds for a lawsuit.
Are the effects of SJS and TEN reversible?
Depending on the type and severity of injury, SJS and TEN often have permanent effects ranging from blindness to scars. These injuries can greatly affect the lives of you and your loved ones and may entitle you to compensation.
Our SJS attorneys have years of experience with SJS and TEN litigation, allowing us to aid victims nationally with ease.
What should you do if you believe you are suffering from an SJS reaction?
Always speak to a doctor immediately after noticing symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Because this rare reaction can be fatal in extreme cases, it is important to get appropriate care from trained professionals as soon as possible.
While the SJS attorneys at Dunn Sheehan have extensive experience in speaking and working with victims of this type of reaction, we can only offer legal guidance. You should always consult a doctor as soon as possible so they can properly assess your situation to provide you with ideal treatment.
Can the manufacturer of a pharmaceutical drug be held responsible for injuries from SJS?
Yes, and our team of SJS attorneys excels at helping victims of Stevens-Johnson syndrome determine whether they have grounds to pursue legal action. Contact us for a free consultation to find out if you or your loved one are entitled to compensation.
I can’t thank Connor, Michelle, Linda, and Greg enough for all the work they’ve done on my behalf. I feel so fortunate to have found them and had them in my corner litigating an extremely complex and challenging case against a large and well-resourced corporation. They were always responsive, easy to work with, and compassionate towards my condition and the limitations it placed on me in life. The award they were able to win has been integral to ensuring I have access to the needed care and maintain my quality of life in retirement.
