Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) or Lyell's syndrome is a potentially life-threatening dermatological disorder, with clinical and histological features characterized by the destruction and detachment of the skin epithelium and mucous membranes. Intensive symptomatic management is crucial: analgesia, daily dressing changes, prevention of infections and symptomatic intensive care measures (hydration, nutrition and oxygen therapy). The aim of our study is to determine epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic characteristics of patients admitted to the intensive burn care unit of Tunis over 9 years, from July 2001 to July 2009.