Stevens Johnson Syndrome Symptoms

Stevens Johnson Syndrome may become noticeable with a skin lesions, with or without systemic (whole body) symptoms. The systemic symptoms are severe in Stevens Johnson syndrome and the lesions are extensive, involving multiple body areas, especially the mucous membranes. Toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell's syndrome or TEN syndrome) involves multiple large blisters (bullae) that coalesce, followed by sloughing of all or most of the skin and mucous membranes.

Signs and symptoms often appear suddenly. These include pain in the affected mucous membranes even before erosions develop. Steven Johnson syndrome is most common in children and young adults. In some cases, the cause can't be identified.

Stevens Johnson Diagnosis

The diagnosis of SJS is usually based on the appearance of the skin lesions and the typical symmetrical distribution, especially if there is a history of risk factors or associated diseases.

Stevens Johnson Symptoms include:

• Multiple skin lesions:
  • Sudden onset, and may recur
  • May appear as nodule, papule, or macule
  • May spread
  • Vesicles and blisters of various sizes (bullae)
  • A central lesion surrounded by concentric rings of paleness and redness, also called "target", "iris", or "bull's eye"
  • Located on the legs, arms, palms, hands, or feet
  • May involve the face or lips
  • Trunk is usually not involved
  • Usually symmetrical
• General ill feeling
• Fever
• Itching of the skin
• Joint aches