An extremely rare skin condition that causes large portions of the epidermis (the outer layer of skin) to fall off; also known as ten syndrome or toxic epidermolysis bullosa. Toxic epidermal necrolysis is usually caused by a severe drug reaction to medications such as sulfonamides or seizure medications. In t his condition, fever and cough are followed by the development of purple, target like lesions on the skin. The lesions merge and blister, and, eventually, the skin is shed. Diagnosis of toxic epidermal necrolysis is made according to the appearance of the skin lesions and a medical history that includes the recent prescription of a new medication. Doctors generally consider toxic epidermal necrolysis to be a particularly severe form of erythema multiforme, a type of skin reaction in which target like lesions appear on the skin and sores develop on the mucous membranes.
A rare, often life-threatening illness marked by scaling and shedding of the skin and mucous membranes. It usually is caused by an adverse reaction to a drug. Treatment is similar to that for patients with extensive burns.
An intense rash characterized by blistering, causing the outer layers of the skin to detach and reveal extensive regions of red, exposed skin. This condition poses the potential for extensive infection and the loss of bodily fluids and essential salts.
An adverse reaction to a drug, notably barbiturates, sulphonamides, or penicillin, is the leading cause of toxic epidermal necrolysis. Typically, ceasing the use of the responsible medication leads to the resolution of the condition. In certain cases, intravenous fluid replacement might be required.
In neonates, this situation can stem from a staphylococcal infection and is termed scalded skin syndrome. The approach to treatment involves administering antibiotic medications and replenishing fluids.