Toxic epidermal necrolysis: a medical student's perspective

As a third year medical student, I was hospitalized for approximately one month with Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). Consequently, I have developed an insight into the role of patient as well as that of medical care giver. My experience prompted an intense interest in this particular adverse drug reaction and research into treatment recommendations. Treatment has changed in recent years and this resulted in significantly improved survival. Steroids, once commonly used, are now considered contraindicated. Because of the wide variety of medications which may be associated with this adverse reaction, it is essential to be familiar with the clinical presentation of TEN, as well as the initial steps in treatment.