According to the Mayo Clinic: Steven's-Johnson Syndrome is a rare, serious condition, thought to be caused by a disorder of your immune system.

Often, signs of Steven's-Johnson Syndrome begin with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spread or blisters, eventually causing the top layer of your skin to die and shed.

Treatment focuses on eliminating the underlying cause, controlling symptoms and minimizing complications.

If you have Steven's-Johnson Syndrome, several days before the rash develops, you may experience: fever…sore throat…cough…and burning eyes.

Steven's-Johnson Syndrome requires immediate medical attention. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms: unexplained widespread skin pain…facial swelling…blisters on your skin and mucous membranes…hives…tongue swelling…a red or purple skin rash that spreads…or shedding of your skin.

The exact cause of Steven's-Johnson Syndrome can't always be identified. Usually, the condition is an allergic reaction in response to medication, infection or illness. Anticonvulsants like Dilantin and Lamictal can be the culprits which means that complete withdrawal is necessary.

Possible complications of Steven's-Johnson Syndrome include: a secondary skin infection, which can potentially become a life-threatening condition such as sepsis…eye problems… damage to internal organs…and permanent skin damage.

Because it's difficult to determine exactly which drug may be causing the problem, your doctor may recommend that you stop taking all nonessential medications. And there are no standard recommendations for treating Steven's-Johnson Syndrome.

When a large area of your body is affected, skin grafting — removing skin from one area of your body and attaching it to another — may be necessary to help you heal. But, this treatment is only rarely required.

If the underlying cause of Steven's-Johnson Syndrome can be eliminated and the skin reaction stopped, your skin may begin to grow again within several days. In severe cases, full recovery may take several months.

It's difficult to prevent an initial attack of Steven's-Johnson Syndrome because the trigger is unknown. However, if you've had Steven's-Johnson Syndrome once, and your doctor determined that it was caused by medication, be sure to avoid that medication and others in the same class to prevent another attack.   

Reference: Mayo Clinic

phylisfeinerjohnson

www.epilepsytalk.com