Long-Term Effects of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is the name of an extreme adverse physical reaction, most commonly an allergic reaction to medication, which causes severe skin inflammation and damage. It can also result from viral and bacterial infections. The technical name for this syndrome is erythema mutiforme, and if it reaches the worst stage, it is called "toxic epidermal necrolysis." Long-term effects can be disabling.

Initial Symptoms

• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome typically begins with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, coughing, headache or nausea. Mild rashes and blisters then appear, usually on the lower legs and arms and in the person's mouth; treatment can halt the symptoms, but because this disorder is not very common, it often is misdiagnosed.

Severe Symptoms

• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome next progresses to very painful ulcers affecting much of the skin and the mucous membranes. In the worst stage, the person has severe burn-like blisters all over the body, and skin can fall off; victims are often treated at burn units.

Scarring

• Because of the severity of this disorder, long-term effects are likely. Scarring is common, and sometimes organ systems can develop blisters and thus be scarred as well, inhibiting organ function.

Reoccurrence

• Flare-ups may continue for many months, causing problems with breathing, eating, swallowing and walking, along with general fatigue.

Vision Problems

• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome can cause blindness, partial blindness or other vision problems.

Terminal Complications

• Because of the severity of this disorder, complications can set in which result in death.