|
Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a limited form of toxic epidermal necrolysis (see this term) characterized by destruction and detachment of the skin epithelium and mucous membranes involving less than 10% of the body surface area. The annual incidence of Stevens-Johnson syndrome is less than 1/1,000,000. Stevens-Johnson syndrome can be triggered by a drug allergy and, more rarely, by infections or bone marrow transplantation. In 25 to 30% of cases, the cause is unclear. Patients should be admitted to an intensive care or burns unit as soon as the diagnosis is suspected. Reepithelialization is rapid (2-3 weeks). |