Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

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Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Definition

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare and serious disorder that affects the skin, mucous membranes and eyes. Until now, there has not been found a way to prevent this syndrome. Because its appearance cannot be predicted.

However, Stevens-Johnson syndrome caused by drug allergies can still be prevented. You do this by avoiding repeated use of the drug that is the source of the allergy.

Therefore, always record medicines that cause allergies to you and inform your doctor.

If not treated properly, sufferers of Stevens-Johnson syndrome can experience complications. Some of them are respiratory infections, blood infections, permanent skin damage, and so on.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Symptoms

Initially, the symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome resemble respiratory tract infections, such as vomiting and diarrhea for 1-14 days. This condition is then followed by the appearance of skin disorders in the form of:

  • Red-red
  • Spots
  • Blistered skin

Symptoms on the skin can also include the appearance of bubbles filled with water and pus in the mouth and genitals, as well as abnormalities in the mucous membranes of the eyes. Symptoms can only take the form of a mild skin reaction to involve multiple organ failure which can be life-threatening.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Reason

Until now, the cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome is still not known with certainty. However, this syndrome is thought to occur due to abnormalities in the immune system, as well as allergic reactions to drugs.

Drugs that can trigger Stevens-Johnson syndrome, including:

  • Joint disease drugs, such as allopurinol
  • Painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen
  • Antibiotics, such as penicillin
  • Drugs preventing and reducing seizures
  • Radiation therapy

Infections that can trigger Stevens-Johnson syndrome are:

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Stevens-Johnson syndrome can be known through:

  • Physical examination. Doctors make a diagnosis of the syndrome based on medical history and physical examination.
  • Skin test. Doctors make a diagnosis with a biopsy or taking skin tissue.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Treatment

First aid for Stevens-Johnson syndrome can be done in the following ways:

  • Stop using the drug immediately.
  • Avoid giving drugs to reduce the symptoms of the syndrome without being examined by a doctor.
  • Immediately go to the hospital.

In addition, there are several treatment options, namely:

  • Steroids

    Used to suppress inflammation or reactions from allergies that occur.

  • Antibiotics

    Used because sufferers of Stevens-Johnson syndrome are susceptible to infection.

  • Diet and fluids

    A high-protein diet is good for promoting healing. Meanwhile, fluid administration needs to be considered to prevent dehydration.

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