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Updated: Jul 14, 2026

A Standardized Procedure of Dressing Management for Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Published on: March 14, 2025
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis
1Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, Department of Emergency Medicine, 5501 Old York Road, Philadelphia, PA 19141, USA. parrills@einstein.edu
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) are severe, life-threatening conditions on a disease spectrum, often misdiagnosed early. This paper reviews current understanding and therapeutic approaches for SJS/TEN.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
- Immunology
Background:
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe mucocutaneous reactions.
- These conditions are now understood as part of a disease spectrum with varying severity.
- Distinguishing early SJS/TEN from erythema multiforme remains a diagnostic challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of the SJS/TEN disease spectrum.
- To discuss accepted and controversial therapeutic strategies for SJS/TEN.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges in early-stage SJS/TEN.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of SJS/TEN.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria for SJS/TEN.
- Discussion of treatment modalities for SJS/TEN.
Main Results:
- SJS/TEN represents a spectrum of illness, not distinct diseases.
- Early diagnosis of SJS/TEN is frequently missed.
- Therapeutic options for SJS/TEN range from established to debated approaches.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of the SJS/TEN spectrum is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
- Further research is needed to clarify optimal SJS/TEN therapies.
- Improved diagnostic strategies are essential to reduce SJS/TEN morbidity and mortality.
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