Early signs

Recognition of the early symptoms of SJS/TEN, accurate diagnosis and prompt medical attention are the most invaluable tools in minimising the possible long-term effects.

Initial symptoms may be non-specific in nature and may include:

• Fever
• Malaise
• Flu-like symptoms

Although all medications including over-the-counter and herbal medicines have the potential to cause SJS/TEN, the most commonly implicated are:

• Anti-convulsants (drugs used for epilepsy), for example:
  • Carbamazepine
  • Lamotrigine
  • Phenytoin
• Antibiotics, for example:
  • Penicillin
  • Cephalosporin
  • Sulphonamides
• Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), for example:
  • Ibuprofen
• Anti-gout medications, for example
  • Allopurinol

Other Causes include Viral, Bacterial and Fungal Infections.