Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Dilantin

Stevens Johnson Syndrome is a severe, potentially life-threatening condition. It causes a spreading red to purple rash on the skin, the outer layer of the skin to separate from the layers below, and blisters to break out on the mucous membranes (including those of the mouth, nose and eyes). Sometimes, there is so much scarring of the membranes of the eyes, the syndrome can lead to blindness.

Dilantin

Dilantin is a drug used to treat epilepsy. There are times when Stevens Johnson Syndrome can be traced to the use of Dilantin. The condition is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention, usually hospitalization. The loss of skin leaves the patient especially prone to infection and loss of fluids.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis is another form of the same syndrome.

What to Look For if You’ve Been Taking Dilantin

Swelling of the face
Swelling of the tongue
Widespread pain of the skin
A flat purple or red rash that increases within hours or days
Skin that sheds or peels off easily
Blisters on the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and eyes

If a person experiences these symptoms, it is essential they receive immediate medical attention. They will often be hospitalized, usually in the burn unit, which is best equipped to deal with the loss of skin and replacement of fluids.

What Might Precede These Symptoms

Burning Eyes
Sore Throat
Fever
Cough
Headache
Body aches

What Are the Causes of Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

The condition is usually a result of a reaction to a variety of drugs. These may include anticonvulsants such as Dilantin, sulfa antibiotics, barbiturates and some steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Who Gets Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

The syndrome usually occurs in older people, most likely because they take more medication than other people do. However, it can occur at any age. It also occurs in people with AIDS.

When to Seek Help from a Lawyer

If you or someone you love has had SJS and you have taken Dilantin, our Stevens Johnson Syndrome lawyers can help you explore your options for filing a lawsuit to compensate you for your injuries, pain and suffering. Please call us to find out how we can help. Toll free (800) 481-7430.

Disease Breaking News

"Former NBA player Manute Bol dies after fighting Stevens-Johnson Syndrome"

Manute Bol, a former NBA player and humanitarian, recently passed away from kidney failure and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

Bol, who was 47-years-old, was renowned for his 7"7' frame and tireless efforts to improve his native Sudan for his fe...

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"Stop smoking drug linked to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome"

Health officials and a drug company in Canada are issuing stronger warnings about an anti-smoking drug, which cautions that the drug could cause Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

Health Canada and Pfizer Canada increased the warnings for the smoking ce...

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"Family of jailed woman with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome criticize prison staff"

The family of a jailed woman who is suffering from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is criticizing the prison staff for allowing her condition to go untreated.

Charity-Lekiea Brown was recently sent to prison for not paying child support and a prison d...

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