Drug-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Definition

This is one of the four principal forms of severe cutaneous adverse reaction to drugs (SCARs) and is characterised by inflammation, blistering and erosion of skin and mucous membranes. By definition, there is involvement of at least one mucous membrane and skin detachment is limited to less than 10% of body surface area. Most cases occur within the first 8 weeks of drug exposure. The drugs most commonly involved are antimicrobial sulfonamides, anticonvulsants, allopurinol, nevirapine and oxicam–nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

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