Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Skin pain is the most common symptom of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Flu-like symptoms are also usually present during the initial stages, and may include:
- feeling generally unwell
- a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
- a headache
- joint pain
- a cough
After a few days a rash appears, which may look like a target darker in the middle and lighter around the outside (see below). The rash isn't usually itchy, and spreads over a number of hours or days. Large blisters then develop on the skin, which after bursting leave painful sores.
Facial swelling and swollen lips covered in crusty sores are common features of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. The mucous membranes inside your mouth, throat, eyes and genital tract may also become blistered and ulcerated. This can make swallowing painful and lead to serious problems such as dehydration .
The surface of the eyes can also sometimes be affected, which if not treated quickly can cause corneal ulcers and vision problems (see Complications of Stevens-Johnson syndrome , below).
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which is a rare but serious disorder that affects the skin and mucous membranes.
Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Skin pain is the most common symptom of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Flu-like symptoms are also usually present during the initial stages, and may include: feeling generally unwell a high temperatur
Causes of Stevens-Johnson syndrome
In children, Stevens-Johnson syndrome is usually triggered by a viral infection, such as mumps flu herpes-simplex virus, which causes cold sores Coxsackie virus, which causes Bornholm diseas
Risk factors
Risk factors for Stevens-Johnson syndrome may include: viral infections such as herpes, hepatitis, viral pneumonia or HIV a weakened immune system as a result of HIV or AIDS , autoimmune condi
Diagnosing Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Stevens-Johnson syndrome should be diagnosed by a dermatologist (skin specialist). A diagnosis is often based on a combination of your: symptoms physical examination medical history (including any
Treating Stevens-Johnson syndrome
If Stevens-Johnson syndrome is suspected, you or your child will be immediately referred to hospital for treatment. Without treatment, the symptoms can become very severe and be life-threatening. Sev
Complicationsof Stevens-Johnson syndrome
As Stevens-Johnson syndrome severely affects the skin and mucous membranes, it can cause a number of complications. These include: skin changes when your skin grows back it may be uneven in colour
Preventing Stevens-Johnson syndrome
If Stevens-Johnson syndrome has been caused by an adverse reaction to a medication, you'll need to avoid taking this medication and other similar medications. Other family members may also want to avo
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