Cutaneous approach in toxic epidermal necrolysis

• Published in: Revista Brasileira de cirurgia plástica 2017-03, Vol.32 (1), p.128-134
• Main Authors: Santos Neto, Francisco Carlos, Piccinini, Pedro Salomão, Andary, Jean Miguel, Sartori, Lucas Dal Pozzo, Cancian, Lucas Tomkowski, Uebel, Carlos Oscar, Oliveira, Milton Paulo de
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: child; dermatology; exanthema; stevens-johnson syndrome; surgical procedures
• ISSN: 2177-1235; 1983-5175; 2177-1235
• DOI: 10.5935/2177-1235.2017RBCP0018

INTRODUCTION: Toxic epidermal necrolysis is a severe acute mucocutaneous condition usually induced by drugs associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. The care of the mucous lesions and skin and a multidisciplinary approach are very important for the prognosis and future sequelae. OBJECTIVES: To discuss the main aspects of this syndrome through a literature review illustrated by a clinical case. Methods: Review of the literature using the PubMed and SciELO online databases was performed. Articles in English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish were included and illustrated with a pediatric clinical case. The keywords used were as follows: "toxic epidermal necrolysis," "Stevens-Johnson overlap," "necrólise epidérmica tóxica," and "síndrome Stevens-Johnson." RESULTS: We presented data to guide the management of patients with toxic epidermal necrolysis for plastic surgeons, pediatricians, intensivists, dermatologists, and emergency physicians. The case treated had a favorable disease course without sequelae. CONCLUSION: A high level of suspicion is necessary for an adequate diagnosis and risk stratification, and early support measures and treatment should be performed by a multidisciplinary team trained to minimize damage and mortality.