[Ocular involvement in Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis]

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare severe reactions of skin and mucous membranes. They are considered as a single disease entity with differing severities and are mainly induced by drugs, less frequently by infections. In 50% of the patients ocular complications occur, which can lead to blindness in the absence of immediate ophthalmological treatment. The acute pattern, the unpredictable course and extreme variations in the manifestation of complications require an interdisciplinary treatment. Early diagnosis and initiation of an intensive lubricating and anti-inflammatory surface care are of utmost importance for the best visual outcome. This article is intended to help ophthalmologists towards a better understanding and interpretation of clinical signs of these conditions with the goal to achieve substantial improvements in visual outcome and of course the patient's quality of life.