Singapore Med J 2009; 50(1): 29-33. Erratum in: Singapore Med J 2012; 53(3): 220.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: efficacy of intravenous immunoglobulin and a review of treatment options
Erratum in: Singapore Med J 2012; 53(3): 220.
Teo L, Tay YK, Liu TT, Kwok C
Correspondence: Dr Lynn Teo, lynnteohweeying@hotmail.com
ABSTRACT
Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare, severe adverse drug reaction. Steven-Johnson syndrome (SJS) represents the milder end of the spectrum. The exact pathogenesis of TEN and SJS is still unknown and many drugs, including prednisolone, cyclosporin and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), have been used in an attempt to halt the disease process. The use of IVIG in particular is controversial. We share our experience with the use of IVIG in six patients with TEN. We will also review the various proposed mechanisms underlying TEN, the mechanism of action of IVIG in TEN and summarise useful treatment options.
Keywords: adverse drug reaction, corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis
Singapore Med J 2009; 50(1): 29-33
