Stevens-Johnson syndrome: a case report of possible cephalosporin-induced cutaneous adverse reaction

Abstract

A severe medical condition known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is marked by a cutaneous and mucosal reaction from the use of specific medications. The prodromal illness is followed by severe mucocutaneous symptoms in this immune-mediated disease. We describe the clinical history of a 55-year-old Caucasian woman who was exposed to cephalosporins.

In resource-constrained countries and hospitals where cutaneous biopsy is not readily available, it is not easy to diagnose Steven Johnson Syndrome. This is particularly true in countries where the incidence of infectious diseases such as scarlet fever and measles is high and the early symptoms of SJS can be mistaken for these conditions. We used the Naronjo scale to confirm the probable association of the drug with the syndrome. Physicians while writing prescriptions for their patients need to warn them of potential side effects and they should keep in mind conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This case report highlights the need for improved knowledge and understanding of SJS among healthcare practitioners in resource-limited communities where the prevalence of infectious diseases is high.