Which are the causes of Stevens Johnson Syndrome?

Causes of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious disorder that affects the skin and mucous membranes. It is characterized by a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction, causing the skin to blister and peel off. SJS can be triggered by various factors, including:

Infections

Infections are one of the leading causes of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Certain viral and bacterial infections can initiate an immune response that leads to the development of SJS. The most common infections associated with SJS include:

• Herpes simplex: The herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores and genital herpes, has been linked to SJS.


• HIV: Individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have a higher risk of developing SJS.


• Pneumonia: Bacterial infections like pneumonia, particularly caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, can trigger SJS.

Medications

Medications are another significant cause of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Certain drugs have been identified as potential triggers for this condition. These include:

• Antibiotics: Sulfa drugs, penicillins, and other antibiotics have been associated with SJS.


• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, and others in this class can increase the risk of SJS.


• Anticonvulsants: Some antiepileptic drugs, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, have been linked to SJS.


• Allopurinol: This medication used to treat gout can also cause SJS in certain individuals.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases can contribute to the development of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, including the skin and mucous membranes. Some autoimmune diseases associated with SJS include:

• Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can increase the risk of SJS.


• Rheumatoid arthritis: This chronic inflammatory disorder has been linked to SJS in some cases.

Genetic Predisposition

There is evidence to suggest that genetic predisposition plays a role in the development of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Certain genetic factors may make individuals more susceptible to the condition when exposed to specific triggers, such as medications or infections. However, further research is needed to fully understand the genetic components involved.

Other Factors

While less common, other factors that can contribute to the development of SJS include:

• Chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in industrial settings or household products, may trigger SJS in susceptible individuals.


• Radiation therapy: In rare cases, radiation therapy used to treat cancer can lead to the development of SJS.


• Organ transplantation: Some individuals who undergo organ transplantation may develop SJS as a complication of the procedure or due to immunosuppressive medications.

It is important to note that while these factors are associated with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, not everyone exposed to them will develop the condition. SJS remains a rare occurrence, and the exact cause can vary from person to person.