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Stevens-johnson Syndrome

Written by Himabindhu
Medically Reviewed by The Medindia Medical Review Team on Apr 03, 2015
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What is Stevens-johnson Syndrome ?  

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a life-threatening skin condition in which the top layer of cells of the skin and mucous membranes die and separate from the dermis, the next layer. It is a medical emergency that flares up in reaction to a medication or infection.


Cause(s) :  Some drugs cause the syndrome:
  • Antigout medications
  • Pain relievers
  • Penicillin
  • Anti-convulsants
  • Antipsychotics
  • Radiation therapy
Symptoms :  Several days before symptoms surface on the skin:
  • Fever, fatigue
  • Sore mouth and throat
  • Cough
  • Burning eyes
Acute symptoms include:
  • Swelling of the face
  • Swelling of the tongue
  • Hives
  • Pain in skin
  • Red or purple rash on skin that spreads within hours or days
  • Shedding of the skin which is painful
  • Blisters on the skin, mucous membranes of mouth, nose, eyes and genitals
Diagnosis and Tests :  
  • Skin biopsy
  • Physical examination
Specialist to consult :  Emergency Medicine

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