Toxic epidermal necrolysis--an unusual cause of colonic perforation. Report of a case

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare and severe reaction to certain drugs that results in full-thickness epidermal necrosis of the skin. Other mucosal surfaces such as the oropharynx, esophagus, conjunctiva, and genitalia may also be affected. Specific involvement of the colon is distinctly unusual. A case of TEN that resulted in complete small bowel necrosis and colonic perforation is reported. Early and aggressive surgical resection dealt successfully with this complication and, along with supportive care, allowed resolution of the systemic condition to occur. Five additional cases of colonic necrosis complicating TEN are reviewed.