Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Typically, Stevens-Johnson syndrome affects the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, nostril, eyes, and both the anal and genital regions. It may or may not be associated with skin lesions elsewhere on the body. Oropharyngeal (mouth) lesions may be so intolerable as to prevent eating, and there may be recurring oral ulcers. Often, the skin lesions may look like a target-lesion (3 concentric zones of color change) or as bullae (bubble-like).

A painful conjunctivitis may occur in the eye, frequently with a pus discharge, and can lead to corneal scarring and loss of vision. In addition to the mucous membrane lesions, fever and exhaustion are usual.

Approximately one-third of patients have pulmonary involvement with cough and patchy infiltrates (material that has permeated into the tissues) on chest x-ray. In fatal cases, renal failure and pneumonia may occur.

Signs and symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

• Facial swelling 
• Tongue swelling 
•  Hives 
• Skin pain
• A red or purple skin rash that spreads within hours to days 
• Blisters on your skin and mucous membranes, especially in your mouth, nose and eyes
• Shedding (sloughing) of your skin

Up to two weeks before SJS sores appear on your mouth and skin,
you may have the following symptoms:

• Cough
•  Fatigue (sleepiness) 
•  Fever and chills
•  Headache.    
•  Muscle and joint pain
•  Sore throat
•  Nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea
•  Mild dizziness or drowsiness
•  Tender or swollen glands
•  Swollen or painful gums
•  Headache
•  Muscle twitches
•  Increased facial hair
•  Swelling of breasts
•  Insomnia

When to see a doctor
Stevens-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
•   Shedding of your skin 

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Posted in: Signs And Symptoms