Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a rare reaction, but it causes quite severe health complications that result in the skin and mucous membranes blistering and shedding. This condition most often happens as a reaction to medication, and severe symptoms can be life-threatening within just a few days.
In this guide, we are taking a closer look at Stevens-Johnson Syndrome symptoms, as well as what individuals and survivors need to know about their legal rights if it was a preventable drug reaction.
What Is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (commonly known as SJS) is a severe reaction that happens in the immune system, most often caused when a person uses a medication. The symptoms affect the skin and mucous membranes specifically, which can cause life-threatening health risks to the patient who has been injured.
Both SJS and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are categorized as the same disease that falls on a spectrum. The difference between these two conditions is mainly based on how much of the body has been affected. SJS is less severe compared to TEN.
The good news is that SJS and TEN are rare. But the issue is that it’s common for misdiagnosis to occur in the early stages of the disease. Many of the symptoms are similar to other common illnesses at first, which can make it difficult for healthcare providers to offer an accurate diagnosis early on.
Early Warning Signs and Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
In the beginning, the earliest symptoms of SJS seem like coming down with the flu. The most common symptoms within the first 3 days include fever, sore throat, fatigue, and burning eyes. At this point, there are no signs of a rash.
But eventually, the symptoms progress and a painful rash develops. The skin starts blistering, and the skin can even start to fall off. Additionally, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome symptoms can often involve mucosal areas such as the mouth, eyes, or genitals.
If you have recently started a new medication and you notice any of these symptoms, then it’s critical that you treat it as a medical emergency. Talk to your doctor immediately. Never wait it out to see what happens.
What Causes Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Certain types of medications can cause Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, including:
- Anticonvulsants
- Antibiotics
- Pain relievers
It is also possible for SJS to be triggered by infections or other non-drug factors, such as genetics, immune conditions, and family history that increase a person’s risk.
How Diagnosis and Treatment Work for SJS
While the appearance of the skin rash can be one of the first indications used for diagnosis, it is also confirmed with a skin biopsy. Because this condition can progress very quickly, it should always be treated as a medical emergency. If a patient is diagnosed with SJS, then they typically require hospitalization.
The most severe SJS cases need to receive emergency care and burn-unit support. When the skin is severely damaged, it is managed in a similar way to a serious burn.
Recovery from SJS can take several weeks or even multiple months. It’s common for patients to have long-term complications that can affect their daily life, even after the acute phase is resolved.
Life After SJS: What Survivors Deal with Long-Term
Getting past the most intensive symptoms is just the first step, especially since many patients are affected by the long-term complications of this disease. Survivors often have ongoing issues, such as:
- Scarring
- Skin discoloration
- Vision problems
- Light sensitivity
- Hair and nail damage
- Difficulty swallowing
- Genital adhesions
Additionally, the mental health challenges can be quite severe after a sudden medical crisis like SJS. Survivors are often dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression that stem from the illness.
Was Your SJS Caused by Medical Negligence? Your Legal Rights
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with SJS, and was it caused by medical negligence? Then you might have a legal case worth pursuing. Grounds for a lawsuit include a situation where a doctor, pharmacist, or manufacturer didn’t warn about the known risk. Or, if a medication was prescribed inappropriately, then it could be a medical malpractice case.
Another reason you might consider pursuing legal action is if your doctor or medical team missed early warning signs. For example, if they had you continue taking the medication even after the warning signs showed up, then it could be grounds for pursuing legal action.
Liability isn’t clear in these types of cases, which is why it’s critical that you are working with a legal team that has previous experience with SJS specifically. An investigation needs to be done, and we must collect evidence to prove liability, which could fall on the prescribing doctor, the pharmacist, or even the drug manufacturer. Liability determination depends on what went wrong, when it happened, and your overall experience.
One important thing to keep in mind: an SJS lawsuit is time-sensitive. Not only do you need to meet the statute of limitations requirements, but it’s best to start gathering evidence as soon as possible. The earlier you call our legal team, the easier it is for us to collect the right information that will prove liability in the case.
FAQs
How quickly does Stevens-Johnson Syndrome develop after starting a new medication?
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome symptoms usually show up as early as one week after starting the triggering medication, but sometimes the symptoms don’t occur for a few weeks. In the beginning, patients have flu-like symptoms before the rash appears.
Can you sue for Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Yes, there are times when you can sue a doctor, pharmacist, or the drug manufacturer if you were not properly warned about the known risks. Additionally, you may have a legal claim if the early warning signs were missed by the medical team.
Do I need a lawyer while I’m still being treated for SJS?
It’s best to talk to an SJS lawyer as soon as possible, even while you are in treatment. An early consultation allows our legal team to start gathering evidence and documentation to build your case.
Why Choose Wormington & Bollinger for Your Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Case
Our team at Wormington & Bollinger brings extensive experience working with other SJS victims. Maria Wormington, RN, JD, has a clinical background from working as a nurse and then made a career change to become a lawyer.
Our law firm works with SJS clients across the country. If you or someone you love developed Stevens-Johnson Syndrome after taking a medication, then reach out to us at Wormington & Bollinger. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options.