Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 29, 2025

A Standardized Procedure of Dressing Management for Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Published on: March 14, 2025
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: a report of six cases
Ahu Kara1, İlker Devrim1, İlknur Çağlar1
1Departments of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, İzmir, Turkey.
Insights
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe drug reactions. Early ophthalmological evaluation is crucial for managing potential long-term ocular complications in SJS/TEN patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCARs).
- These conditions carry significant morbidity and mortality risks.
- Triggers include medications and infections like Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Observation:
- This report details six cases of SJS or TEN with varied clinical presentations.
- Patients received Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) and intensive supportive care for skin and mucosal lesions.
- The median hospital stay was 13.5 days.
Findings:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection was identified as a potential trigger in some patients.
- Ocular involvement was the most common long-term complication observed.
- One patient developed corneal epithelial defects, highlighting the risk of eye complications.
Implications:
- Ophthalmological assessment is essential at diagnosis and before hospital discharge for SJS/TEN patients.
- Prompt eye evaluations can aid in early detection and management of ocular sequelae.
- This underscores the multidisciplinary approach required for managing SCARs.
Abstract:
Kara A, Devrim İ, Çağlar İ, Bayram N, Kundak S, Apa H, Altan EV. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: a report of six cases. Turk J Pediatr 2019; 61: 538-543. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis are severe cutaneous adverse reactions commonly caused by exposure to drugs and can end up with significant morbidity and mortality. We reported our experience with six patients who were diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis with a different clinical presentation. In patients, drugs and Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection were implicated as a trigger. Intravenous Immunoglobulin treatment was given to all patients, and intensive treatment was applied for skin and mucosal lesions. The median period of stay in hospital was 13.5 days. The most common long-term complication was ocular involvement. Among six patients, corneal epithelial defects occurred in one patient. Consequently, ophthalmological evaluation should be performed both at the time of diagnosis and before hospital discharge.
Related Concept Videos
Toxic Reactions: Overview
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...
Clinical Applications of Epidermal Stem Cells
Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...

