Llámenos para consultas gratis
Call Us for Free Consultations

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare, life-threatening condition of the mucous membranes and skin in which the epidermis separates from the dermis due to cell death. Generally speaking, the disorder may begin for no known reason, although an allergic reaction to some medications and underlying infection or cancers may trigger the syndrome.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome often begins with:

  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Inflammation of the mucous membranes
  • A painful red or purple rash that spreads and blisters
  • The top layer of skin begins to die and shed

Stevens-Johnson syndrome requires emergency hospitalization, with treatment focused on uncovering and eliminating the cause, controlling the patient’s symptoms and minimizing complications.

Recovery from Stevens-Johnson syndrome can take as long as several weeks or months, depending on the severity of the patient’s condition.

Because Stevens-Johnson syndrome can occur in reaction to certain medications, it is important to avoid that medication in the future, since future exposures could be fatal.

What Triggers Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

Drugs that may trigger Stevens-Johnson Syndrome include:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Sulfonamides and penicillins, which are used to treat infections
  • Anticonvulsants, which are used to fight seizures

Infections that may contribute to Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

  • Herpes (herpes simplex or herpes zoster)
  • Influenza
  • HIV
  • Diphtheria
  • Typhoid
  • Hepatitis

Physical stimuli, such as radiation therapy or ultraviolet light, can also produce symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Complications of Stevens-Johnson syndrome may include:

  • Secondary skin infection (cellulitis)
  • Sepsis
  • Eye problems
  • Damage to internal organs
  • Permanent skin damage

Be Careful with Ibuprofen

Parents of children who have died from Stevens-Johnson syndrome claim that manufacturers of over-the-counter ibuprofen for children should have warned caregivers about the dangers of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and should be held responsible for not telling users to discontinue the drug if symptoms of the disease began.

If you or someone close to you has been injured or died as the result of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), you might be able to recover damages in a defective product lawsuit. The attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers are here to help you through every aspect of your claim.

Please contact our defective product lawyers today to have your case evaluated. Statutes of limitations apply in every state, so do not delay in getting the help you need. Jacoby & Meyers has offices throughout the U.S.