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Treatment Overview

Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) treatments are focused on the management of SJS symptoms as opposed to providing a cure. There is no known cure for SJS and, currently, there is no effective treatment to stop the spread of Stevens Johnson Syndrome throughout the body. If SJS has been caused by an underlying factor (like an allergic reaction to a drug or an infection) then ceasing taking the drug or treating the infection can have a positive impact on the progress of SJS.

SJS Background

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a life-threatening disorder that affects skin and mucous membranes throughout the body. It is identified medically as an immune-complex-mediated hypersensitivity (allergic reaction), that is a severe form of a lesser type of hypersensitivity called erythema multiforme. The disorder is typically caused by an allergic reaction to a drug. The drugs that can typically cause this problem include antibiotics, anticonvulsants, Bextra, a prescription pain reliever of the COX-2 inhibitor family, and other over-the-counter pain relievers such as Children's Motrin and Adult Motrin. Symptoms of SJS include fever, respiratory infection, rash and lesions throughout the body and mucous membranes.

SJS Treatment

The key to preliminary SJS treatment is the recognition and proper diagnosis of the disorder. Since the disease of SJS is often caused by a severe allergic reaction to a drug, it is important to identify drug treatments that have been initiated in the previous several weeks before initial symptoms. Drugs that are commonly associated with SJS, such as Bextra (valdecoxib) and antibiotics should be discontinued immediately. Stevens Johnson Syndrome can also be caused by an underlying infection or malignancy, and identification of these other conditions for SJS patients is beneficial.

During SJS, the patient normally suffers severe fluid loss, similar to patients that have significant burn injuries. SJS patients should therefore be treated in a similar manner as burn victims. Immediate treatment includes fluid replacement and electrolyte correction. As the cases become more advanced, compromise of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems can occur. These patients need to be treated to ensure hemodynamic (blood flow and blood pressure) and airway stability. SJS is a very painful disorder, similar to burn injuries, making pain management an important part of the treatment process.

There is no cure or treatment to stop the progression of SJS. Some studies have suggested that cyclophosphamide, plasmapheresis, hemodialysis and immunoglobin are effective treatments, but none of these are currently considered standard methods of care. As such, the primary treatment is supportive and symptomatic. For Stevens Johnson Syndrome lesions in specific parts of the body, some specific treatment options are available to reduce the symptoms. These SJS treatments include mouthwash treatment for lesions in the mouth, compresses of saline solution applied to areas of open skin and topical anesthesia to reduce pain and allow the patient to take in fluid. As stated earlier, any offending drugs should be stopped immediately. Underlying diseases or infections that may be causing the Stevens Johnson Syndrome must be identified and treated. Some suggestions have been made that steroid treatment is beneficial, while others suggest it is contraindicated. Prophylaxis treatment to reduce the risk of infection and tetanus should be considered.

For corneal scaring caused by SJS, some types of laser eye surgery procedures can work, including All LASER LASIK. These procedures are not to be confused with techniques used for presbyopia treatment.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome Legal Remedies

If you or a loved one has been afflicted with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, then it is possible that the condition was caused by an allergic reaction to a drug. Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to notify physicians and patients of any potential harmful side effects of drugs.

Failure to do so often makes them financially liable for any adverse effects suffered by patients who have taken their drugs. If you or your loved one's symptoms were caused by an allergic drug reaction, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to find out if compensation might be available. Many injury lawyers practice in several areas of law to help their clients in a variety of situations. For example, some of the best personal injury attorneys can also offer help in resolving situations requiring the assistance of a talented auto accident lawyer and/or DWI attorney.

Last Revision: July 28, 2010

MediaFact is a noteworthy Internet resource about drug side effects related to Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Primary Pulmonary Hypertension.