SJS / Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Overview
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare, severe skin reactions, most often triggered by medications, that cause widespread skin and mucous membrane damage. They’re considered part of the same disease spectrum, distinguished mainly by how much of the body’s surface area is affected — TEN being the more extensive and severe form.
Symptoms
The condition often begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters, causing the top layer of skin to die and shed.
Mucous membranes — the mouth, eyes, and genitals — are frequently affected as well, and the condition is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate hospital care.
Causes
SJS/TEN is most commonly triggered by an adverse reaction to a medication, though infections can also be a trigger in some cases. The immune system’s reaction to the trigger causes widespread cell death in the skin’s outer layer.
Risk Factors
- Certain medications, including some antibiotics, anti-seizure drugs, and NSAIDs
- Certain genetic markers that increase sensitivity to specific drugs
- Weakened immune system
- Family or personal history of a prior reaction
Complications
Because SJS/TEN affects the skin’s barrier function over a large surface area, it carries a high risk of infection, fluid loss, and organ complications, and is treated similarly to a severe burn. Long-term complications can include scarring and vision problems if the eyes are affected.
Why Visual Communication Matters for SJS/TEN
Because SJS/TEN progresses quickly and can look similar to other skin reactions early on, a clear visualization of how the condition spreads across the body — and why it’s classified by surface area involvement — helps clinical teams communicate the urgency and severity to patients and families.
How We Support SJS/TEN Communication
We help translate this mechanism into clear, accurate visuals across several formats:
- Illustrations showing disease progression and surface area classification
- Illustrations for scientific publications and conference materials
- Patient and family education content explaining diagnosis and care
- Sales and training materials for clinical teams
Have a Project in Mind?
Whether you’re explaining a disease mechanism, developing patient education materials, or presenting clinical research, we create visuals that make complex science easier to understand.
Contact us at info@biotic-artlab.com or reach out through our contact page to discuss your next SJS/TEN communication project.