Dermatology Made Simple : Skin lesions caused by Drugs

Skin lesions caused by Drugs

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis :

This is an extensive and life threatening skin muco-cutaneous skin disorder that usually occurs in response to a use of medication.

It causes extensive necrosis of skin and formation of blisters and large part of skin becomes denuded.

Patients become unwell clinically and can lead to dehydration and death rapidly if not treated in time.

Mucous membranes of eyes,mouth and genitalia can become involved.

It shoud be treated in HDU prompltly.

The causative medications should be withdrawn.


Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Steven Johnson”s Syndrome

This is a immune complex mediated hypersensitivity reaction to drugs that involves mucous membranes of mouth eyes and genitals .

Patients are clinically unwell with fever,headache,and malaise.

The skin lesions consist of erythema,pustules papules and erosions.

Treatment consists of stopping the offending drugs,fluid balance and skin dressings.

Incase of serious /extensive involvement,the patient should be nursed in HDU