Stevens–Johnson syndrome

Stevens–Johnson syndrome is a disease of the skin. In most cases, it is caused by an allergic reaction to drugs. This accounts for about half the cases. Lymphoma, and other infections are responsible for most other cases. The disease is characterized by cell death that causes the epidermis to separate from the dermis. Since this is similar to what happens in burn, some of the same methods are used to treat patients.

Stevens–Johnson Syndrome Media

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  Micrograph showing full-thickness epidermal necrosis with a basket weave-like stratum corneum and separation of the dermis and epidermis, skin biopsy, H&E stain

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  Mucosal desquamation in a person with Stevens–Johnson syndrome

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  Inflammation and peeling of the lips—with sores presenting on the tongue and the mucous membranes in SJS

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  Stevens-Johnson Syndrome affecting the eye