Long-Term Complications of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: The Spectrum of Chronic Problems in Survivors Necessitates Multidisciplinary Follow-Up
February 2017
in “
British Journal of Dermatology
”
Stevens-Johnson syndrome toxic epidermal necrolysis post-inflammatory dyspigmentation scarring ocular complications visual impairment chronic oral issues dental issues pulmonary problems abnormal pulmonary function tests urogenital lesions gastrointestinal complications hepatic complications acute kidney injury depression PTSD psycho-social challenges SJS TEN dyspigmentation scars eye complications vision loss oral issues dental problems lung problems abnormal lung function tests genital lesions gut problems liver problems kidney injury mental health issues post-traumatic stress disorder social challenges
TLDR Survivors of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis need ongoing care for various long-term health problems.
The document reviewed the range of long-term complications in survivors of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), highlighting the need for comprehensive, multidisciplinary follow-up care. Dermatological issues, such as post-inflammatory dyspigmentation and scarring, were common and significantly affected quality of life. Ocular complications were particularly disabling, affecting 20-75% of survivors and often leading to severe visual impairment. Other noted sequelae included chronic oral and dental issues, pulmonary problems with over 50% of 32 survivors showing abnormal pulmonary function tests, urogenital lesions in 28% of patients, gastrointestinal and hepatic complications, and acute kidney injury in about 20% of cases. Psychiatric issues like depression and PTSD were also prevalent, with many survivors facing long-term psycho-social challenges. The document stressed the importance of early intervention, long-term management, and the need for a large-scale prospective study to better understand the full scope of chronic SJS/TEN complications.
