Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TENS) is a potentially deadly skin disease and is another form of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome that typically results from a drug reaction. Both of these diseases can be deadly, painful and distressing. In most cases, these disorders are caused by a reaction to drugs, such as the cox-2 inhibitor Bextra, which has already been linked to SJS and TENS. Another drug commonly linked to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis is the antibiotic, penicillin.

The symptoms of TENS

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis and SJS can start with non-specific symptoms such as cough, aching, headaches, and fever. This can be followed by more specific symptoms such as a red rash across the face and midsection, which can spread to other parts of the body. The rash can form into blisters near the eyes, mouth and vaginal areas. Mucous membranes can become irritated and inflamed. Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis also causes layers of the skin to come away with ease and often the skin peels away in large patches. The hair and nails can also fall off, and sufferers can become cold and feverish.

Infection is the most common cause of death from Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, which can be contracted through the exposed areas where the skin has peeled off. These areas resemble badly burned skin because of the extent to which it can flay, and exposed areas can seep fluids and become quickly infected.

Treatment for TENS

Those suffering from TENS are treated in hospital, and if the cause of the problem is drug related then the drugs are stopped immediately. Surviving patients are treated intravenously to replace any lost fluids, and the skin is left to re-grow on its own. However, the chances of survival can vary dramatically depending on the level of damage and the degree of infection incurred by the patient.

What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Causes of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Symptoms and Treatment of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

What is Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis?

Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Children