Stevens Johnson syndrome is a destructive and life-threatening condition that’s fortunately very rare. But because it’s so uncommon, patients and their families might not have an idea of what they can expect.

Below are a few Stevens Johnson Syndrome pictures to illustrate how SJS symptoms may present themselves.

Stevens Johnson Syndrome Pictures

SJS begins deceptively enough with symptoms that mimic those of the flu. But within a few days, the characteristic SJS allergic reaction rash breaks out. This painful rash leaves the skin discolored and looking like it has been burned.

These areas of rash spread and join each other. Blisters may form within the affected areas. These blisters can enlarge and coalesce into entire areas of skin that peel away.

Similar symptoms can affect the mucous membranes that line the inside of the digestive tract, genitals, and eyes. Severe symptoms within the mouth or throat can make speaking or swallowing difficult or painful.

The eyes are particularly vulnerable to developing conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the delicate tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and connects to the white of the eye. Conjunctivitis can cause itching or burning in the eyes, excessive discharge, and swelling of the eyelids.

SJS can also damage and scar eye tissue, putting the patient at risk for blindness.

These Stevens Johnson syndrome pictures give you an idea of what some of the most characteristic symptoms look like. Complications of the disease can cause even more damage. The loss of the outer layers of skin expose the patient to the risk of cellulitis, a secondary skin infection that itself can lead to sepsis. They can also be at risk for organ failure and damage. Once the affected areas of skin heal, they may be left with permanent discoloration and disfigurement.

Treatment for SJS requires hospitalization, sometimes in a burn unit if one is available. Once the cause of SJS is found and stopped, providers manage symptoms and prevent infection for as long as it takes for the condition to resolve.

SJS Causes

While SJS can be caused by many different factors, it most frequently begins as an adverse reaction to some medication. Many different medications have been associated with cases of SJS.

Aldactizide, for example, is one such medication. Aldactizide is a combination of hydrochlorothiazide and spironolactone used to treat edematous conditions in patients with certain cardiovascular, liver, or kidney conditions. As the FDA-approved labeling for Aldactizide notes, there have been some reported cases of SJS in conjunction with spirinolactone, one of the ingredients in Aldactizide.

Other Effects of SJS

What Stevens Johnson syndrome pictures don’t show is how the condition affects the patient’s life and the lives of their loved ones. Treatment for SJS can require weeks or sometimes months of hospitalization, preventing the patient from earning income while simultaneously running up ponderous medical bills. Relationships with spouses and other family members can be strained, and financial dependents may be put in jeopardy.