Yuno_howitez
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Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare and serious skin condition. Often, it's caused by an adverse reaction to medication like anticonvulsants or antibiotics.
The main symptom is severe skin peeling and blistering. The peeling progresses quickly, resulting in large raw areas that may ooze or weep. It also affects the mucous membranes, including the mouth, throat, eyes, and genital region.
CAUSES
Because TEN is so rare, it isn't fully understood. It's typically caused by an abnormal reaction to medication. Sometimes, it's difficult to identify the underlying cause of TEN.
Medication
The most common cause of TEN is an abnormal reaction to medication. It's also known as a dangerous type of drug rash, and is responsible for up to 95 percent of TEN cases.
Often, the condition forms within the first 8 weeks of taking the drug.
The following medications are most commonly associated with TEN:
anticonvulsants
oxicams (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
sulfonamide antibiotics
allopurinol (for gout and prevention of kidney stones)
nevirapine (anti-HIV drug)
Infections
In very rare instances, a TEN-like illness is linked to an infection by a bacteria known as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which causes a respiratory infection.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of TEN are different for each person. In the early stages, it usually causes flu-like symptoms. This may include:
fever
body aches
red, stinging eyes
difficulty swallowing
runny nose
coughing
sore throat
After 1 to 3 days, the skin peels with or without blistering. These symptoms can progress within several hours or days.
Other symptoms include:
red, pink, or purple patches
painful skin
large, raw areas of skin (erosions)
symptoms spreading to the eyes, mouth, and genitals
RISK FACTORS
Though anyone taking medication can develop TEN, some people have a higher risk.
Possible risk factors include:
Older age. TEN can affect people of all ages, but it's more likely to affect older adults.
Gender. Females may have a higher risk of TEN.
Weakened immune system. People with a weakened immune system are more likely to develop TEN. This may occur due to conditions like cancer or HIV.
AIDS. SJS and TEN are 1,000 times more common in people with AIDS.
Genetics. The risk is higher if you have the HLA-B*1502 allele, which is most common in people of Southeast Asian, Chinese, and Indian descent. The gene can increase your risk of TEN when you take a certain drug.
Family history. You may be more likely to develop TEN if an immediate relative has had the condition.
Past drug reactions. If you've developed TEN after taking a certain drug, you have an increased risk if you take the same medication.
