The medical literature agrees that Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) can be considered a milder form of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).^[1] These conditions were first recognised in 1922.^[2]

Both diseases can be mistaken for erythema multiforme.^{[citation needed]} Erythema multiforme is sometimes caused by a reaction to a medication, but is more often a type III hypersensitivity reaction to an infection (caused most often by Herpes simplex) and is relatively benign.^{[citation needed]} Although both SJS and TEN can also be caused by infections, they are most often adverse effects of medications.^{[citation needed]} Their consequences are potentially more dangerous than those of erythema multiforme.^{[citation needed]}

Signs and symptoms

Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) usually begins with fever, sore throat, and fatigue, which is misdiagnosed and usually treated with antibiotics. Ulcers and other lesions begin to appear in the mucous membranes, almost always in the mouth and lips but also in the genital and anal regions. Those in the mouth are usually extremely painful and reduce the patient's ability to eat or drink. Conjunctivitis of the eyes occurs in about 30% of children who develop SJS. A rash of round lesions about an inch across arises on the face, trunk, arms and legs, and soles of the feet, but usually not the scalp.^[3]

 

Although Stevens–Johnson Syndrome can be caused by viral infections, malignancies, or severe allergic reactions to medication, the leading cause appears to be the use of antibiotics and sulfa drugs.^{[citation needed]}

 

SJS can be caused by adverse effects of drugs allopurinol, valproate, levofloxacin, diclofenac, etravirine, isotretinoin, fluconazole,^[4] valdecoxib, sitagliptin, oseltamivir, penicillins, barbiturates, sulfonamides, phenytoin, azithromycin, oxcarbazepine, zonisamide, modafinil,^[5] lamotrigine, nevirapine, pyrimethamine, ibuprofen,^[6] ethosuximide, carbamazepine, and nystatin.^[7][8]

 

Medications that have traditionally been known to lead to SJS, erythema multiforme and toxic epidermal necrolysis include sulfonamides (antibiotics), penicillins (antibiotics), cefixime (antibiotic), barbituates (sedatives), lamotrigine, and phenytoin (e.g., Dilantin) (anticonvulsants). Combining lamotrigine with sodium valproate increases the risk of SJS.^{[citation needed]}

 

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a rare cause of SJS in adults; the risk is higher for older patients, women and those initiating treatment.^[2] Typically, the symptoms of drug-induced SJS arise within a week of starting the medication. People with systemic lupus erythematosus or HIV infections are more susceptible to drug-induced SJS.^[3]