Understanding SJS/TENS Symptoms Before It’s Too Late

While Stevens Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis syndrome are not common conditions, they can be brought on by an allergic reaction to medications, such as Dilantin or even through Ibuprofen. Those who are not aware that these medications can lead to SJS/TENS may fail to disclose the medication to their doctors, who may mistake the SJS/TENS symptoms for a less serious condition. When this happens, it can lead to further progression and the possibility of death if not caught and treated in time.

SJS/TENS usually presents itself as flakey skin in the beginning stages. This is quickly replaced by the development of a painful rash followed by large blisters. As a result of the quick progression of SJS/TENS, many patients often suffer the loss of the entire top layer of their skin as it sloughs off in sheets. When this happens, the underlying skin is subject to infection, and the patient’s already compromised immune system may not be able to handle the infection and fight it off, which is what causes the deaths associated with SJS/TENS side effects.

SJS/TENS Patients Treated as Burn Victims

Essentially, since SJS/TENS is a chemical reaction, it is treated as though the patient was burned. As a result, the patient will be treated in the burn unit of the hospital or at least in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

If the patient is lucky enough to survive, they will likely face a long recovery period in which they suffer permanent injuries. Permanent injuries can result in bronchiolitis obliterans, blindness and permanent scarring from the skin sloughing off. In addition, if those symptoms weren’t bad enough, patients are also subject to internal blistering along with losing their nails and hair as a possibility.

Misdiagnosis Could Lead to Death

It is very important for patients to disclose the medications that they are taking in addition to being aware of the potential SJS/TENS side effects that these medications could cause. Manufacturers who fail to warn about Stevens Johnson Syndrome as a possible side effect could face liability and there are currently several lawsuits pending against multiple drug makers. These manufacturers allegedly should have known and subsequently labeled their prescription drug as being linked to the possibility of causing SJS/TENS and failed to do so.

There is Help for SJS/TENS Victims

Those who have found themselves victims of SJS or TENS can contact qualified attorneys to file lawsuits against the manufacturers of the medications. By visiting our Stevens Johnson (SJS) & Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation page, you can read more about SJS and TENS and the ongoing litigation. You can also submit your personal information to attorneys who are investigating Stevens Johnson Syndrome medication side effects.