Diagnosis

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are diagnosed based on a patient's symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing. Although the symptoms of SJS/TEN are well recognized within medical literature, in the early stages, the condition is frequently mistaken for more common illnesses such as influenza, viral infections, or allergic reactions. This can result in delays in diagnosis, particularly when recent or newly started medications are not immediately reviewed or considered as a possible cause.

Healthcare providers look for symptoms including fever, skin pain, rash, blistering, peeling skin and involvement of the mucous membranes such as the eyes, mouth, and genitals. The extent of skin detachment is also used to help determine whether the condition is classified as SJS or TEN.

A skin biopsy is commonly used to support the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. This involves removing a small sample of affected skin for examination to identify the tissue damage. Bloodwork and other testing may also be completed to assess for infection, inflammation, or other explanations for the symptoms. Because SJS and TEN progress so quickly, prompt recognition and diagnosis are important for improving patient outcomes.