Stevens-Johnson syndrome

What is Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes caused by an extreme immune reaction that leads to widespread death of the cells lining these surfaces. The condition primarily involves the epidermis, the outer layer of the…

Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome produces a distinctive pattern of symptoms centered on abrupt skin pain, blistering rash, and inflammation of the mucous membranes. The earliest complaints are often flu-like, but the condition quickly moves into a much more specific set of findings: tender…

Causes of Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is caused by an abnormal immune reaction, most often triggered by a medication and less commonly by an infection or other medical stressor. The disorder develops when the immune system mistakenly identifies a drug-related compound or infection-associated signal as…

Diagnosis of Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious medical emergency that is usually identified by its pattern of rapidly developing skin and mucous membrane injury, often after exposure to a medication or, less commonly, an infection. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, meaning…

Treatment for Stevens-Johnson syndrome

The treatment of Stevens-Johnson syndrome combines immediate removal of the trigger, intensive supportive care, and selected medical therapies aimed at limiting immune-mediated skin and mucosal injury. Because the condition is usually a severe hypersensitivity reaction, often to a medication and less…

Prevention of Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious reaction in which the immune system damages skin and mucosal tissues, usually after exposure to a trigger such as a medication or, less commonly, an infection. In many cases, SJS cannot be fully…

FAQ about Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome, often shortened to SJS, is a rare but serious medical emergency that affects the skin and mucous membranes. People search for it because the first signs can look like a common viral illness or medication reaction, yet the condition…