Topical treatment protocol for Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: a brief report

Patients with exfoliative disorders such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis may present in a variety of healthcare settings with a range of clinical manifestations. The amount of surface area involved varies widely and the full extent of involvement may not be predictable. Medical management is supportive and focuses initially on identifying etiology while providing appropriate wound care to minimize tissue loss. Patients benefit from a coordinated approach that often includes both burn team members and wound care specialists. The purpose of this article is to provide a summary of these conditions for the WOC nurse.