Stevens Johnson Syndrome News: Researchers Look for SJS Blindness Cure
By Andrea Gressman
For some, there is no pain comparable to the terror that is Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Debilitating, disturbing symptoms such as skin burns, long-term damage, loss of vision, as well as the fact as the disease can even be fatal makes this a scary disease. There is little information regarding Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), and because of misdiagnosis due to this lack of knowledge, patients may be exposed to more of the same types of medications that triggered the condition initially, making SJS side effects even more severe. One such SJS side effect includes blindness and a recent Stevens Johnson Syndrome study was initiated in order to find a possible cure for this terrible SJS side effect.
Researches Attempt to Find a Cure for Patients Suffering from Blindness Due to Stevens Johnson Syndrome
Studies are being conducted at the Loyola University Medical Center to determine a plausible cause of action against blindness caused by SJS and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), a more serious form of the disease. The researchers published an article earlier in the year in the medical journal Cornea. They researched the possibility that the transplantation of an amniotic membrane within the first 14 days of developing Stevens Johnson Syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis would lower the chances of permanent blindness in SJS patients.
It seems evident that the number of Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuits being filed is drawing more attention to this terrible disease. As a result, more studies are being completed to address the prevention and treatment of some of the terrible SJS side effects.
Treatment for patients who come down with SJS or TEN occurs typically in the burn unit of a hospital due to the nature of the illness (the symptoms resemble burns). Blistering skin occurs in both SJS and TEN, with Stevens Johnson Syndrome victims suffering burns on 30% or less of the body, while TEN’s victims suffer burns 30% or more of the body. Skin that falls from the body leaves the patient more susceptible to infections, often serious ones. Internal burns and mucus membrane damage are also possible symptoms the patient may experience.
Recovery from the pain of SJS is anything but pleasant. Blindness and extreme photosensitivity is often the fate of those who manage to recover from their pain and suffering. Low eye moisture due to eye damage results in extreme dryness of the eyes.
Transplanting an amniotic membrane in the early stages of SJS could be a deterrent for blindness or severe loss of vision for some lucky patients. They claim if done early enough, those with ocular surface inflammation that is moderate or severe may be spared from blindness.
The sudden occurrence of Stevens Johnsons Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis is what is so terrifying. Previous exposure to the offending drug may not have triggered any allergic reaction; then one day, suddenly, a reaction occurs and the patient suddenly develops SJS or TEN. What is even more disturbing and horrifying is that the lack of knowledge regarding Stevens Johnson Syndrome may prompt physicians to treat the symptoms using the very same drug that made the patients sick.
If you or a love one has been diagnosed with Stevens Johnson Syndrome it is imperative that you find out what your legal options are today. The medical expenses associated with SJS can be extensive and by filing a Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawsuit, you may be able to receive the compensation you deserve. Visit the Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Class Action Lawsuit Investigation page right away to receive your free consultation from a Stevens Johnson Lawsuit Attorney.
Updated October 30th, 2012
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