Ocular features and histopathologic changes during follow-up of toxic epidermal necrolysis

Ocular involvement in Steven-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis: recent insights into pathophysiology, biomarkers, and therapeutic strategies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the pathophysiology, recent biomarkers related to the ocular aspects of Steven-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and to highlight notable evidence published in recent years.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several studies reveal the relationship between tear cytokines and the pathological components in eyes of SJS/TEN patients. Specific clinical features and associated risk factors in the acute stage have shown significant correlations with chronic ocular sequelae. Recent treatment protocols, including early pulse systemic and topical steroids, as well as tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors, have demonstrated positive effects on ocular outcomes. In addition to conventional surgical treatment, a new surgical technique, simple oral mucosal epithelial transplantation (SOMET), has been introduced as a simple ocular surface reconstruction for patient with SJS.

SUMMARY

Advancements in knowledge and management strategies have notably enhanced ocular outcomes for SJS/TEN eyes. A deeper understanding of the biomarker changes in these eyes could facilitate the development of future targeted treatment options.

Acute and chronic ocular outcomes in SJS/TEN patients treated with oral ciclosporin vs intravenous immunoglobulin

Background/Aim

To evaluate differences in ocular complications of Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS)/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) patients receiving either systemic IVIG or Ciclosporin (CsA) as initial treatments.

Methods

Retrospective review of consecutive patients admitted for SJS/TEN at the Singapore General Hospital (SGH) from 2011 to 2017 who received either IVIG or Ciclosporin at the onset of the disease and had ophthalmological follow-up of at least 6 months were included. Acute ocular severity of SJS/TEN was graded using the Gregory grading score; chronic ocular complications were graded using the Sotozono system.

Results

A total of 18 subjects were included for analysis, with eight in the IVIG group and 10 in the CsA group. There were no significant differences in acute Gregory severity grading between the two groups. The CsA group had a trend towards worse overall chronic Sotozono grading scores compared to the IVIG group (median [IQR]: 2 [0-3] vs. 1 [0-6.5], p = 0.27), with a higher incidence of acute severe cornea involvement (60% vs. 25%, p = 0.93) and chronic corneal and eyelid involvement in the former than the latter. SJS/TEN patients with worse acute ocular involvement were more likely to have TEN and perianal mucosal involvement (50% vs. 0, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Compared to those who received IVIG, SJS/TEN patients who received CsA at the acute disease stage, seemed to have worse acute corneal and chronic corneal and eyelid complications. Larger studies are needed to confirm this finding.

Severity Classification of Limbal Stem Cell Failure Due to Steven Johnson Syndrome in the Light of the Classification Consensus of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency

OBJECTIVES

To examine and to understand the limbal stem-cell deficiency (LSCD) because of Steven-Johnson syndrome (SJS) in line with the new classification system for the first time in the literature.

METHODS

Medical records of patients with LSCD because of SJS were reviewed retrospectively. In addition to demographic data and ophthalmologic or systemic findings, anterior segment photographs of the patients were reviewed retrospectively. Limbal stem-cell deficiency severity was graded according to the classification published by the Limbal Stem Cell Working Group.

RESULTS

Twenty-four eyes of 14 patients with eye involvement secondary to SJS were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 36.09±16.70 (9-58) years and the female-to-male ratio was 11:3. The anterior segment photographs of the patients were evaluated by two independent masked observers. Limbal stem-cell deficiency severity was graded according to the classification published by Deng et al. Corneal opacity was divided into three stages according to the area of involvement. Corneal opacity was classified as Stage I if the central 5 mm region of the cornea was not affected, as Stage II if the central 5 mm region of the cornea was affected, and as Stage III if the entire corneal surface was affected. Limbal involvement was classified as Stage A if it was below 50%, as Stage B if it was between 50% and 100%, and as Stage C if it was 100%.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study in the literature to describe and classify LSCD because of SJS, according to the new LSCD classification. Consistent with the results, LSCD follows a bimodal distribution. Most patients demonstrated severe (Stage III-32.14%) or mild (Stage IA-21.42%) LSCD.

Long-term outcomes of glued (sutureless) amniotic membrane transplantation in acute Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis: a comparative study

PURPOSE

To compare the effectiveness and efficiency of a glued (sutureless) technique for amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) with a traditional sutured one in the setting of acute Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study evaluated all patients diagnosed with SJS/TEN between 2008 and 2020 within our hospital network who received AMT in the acute phase according to our protocol and had at least one ophthalmic follow-up in the chronic phase. Primary outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at the most recent visit, presence of a severe ocular complication (SOC) via predefined criteria, time to procedure and duration of procedure. Random effects model analysis was used to evaluate the impact of potential covariates on outcome measures.

RESULTS

A total of 23 patients (45 eyes) were included: 14 patients (27 eyes) in the AMT suture group and 9 patients (18 eyes) in the AMT glue group. There was no difference between the two groups in BCVA at the most recent visit (p=0.5112) or development of a SOC (p=1.000). The glue method was shorter in duration than the suture method (p<0.001). Random effects model additionally indicated that there was no difference in BCVA at most recent follow-up between patients who had received glued versus sutured AMT (p=0.1460).

CONCLUSIONS

Our glued technique for AMT is as effective as our sutured technique in stabilising the ocular surface and mitigating chronic ocular complications in SJS/TEN. The glued technique is also shorter in duration and performed more expediently than the sutured technique.

A retrospective analysis of mortality risk and immunosuppressive therapy for Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis syndrome using the TriNetX research network

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) exist on a spectrum of autoimmune conditions which cause epidermal detachment and keratinocyte necrosis. Due to the rare incidence of these conditions, a dramatic heterogeneity in treatment algorithms exists. To better appreciate pharmacologic immunosuppressive therapies' impact on survival, the authors queried a multi-institutional data network. Data for this study was extracted from TriNetX Research Network, a platform that contains ICD-9/ICD-10 coding data from a consortium of international healthcare organizations. Seventy-one institutions were queried to identify adult patients diagnosed with SJS, TEN or SJS-TEN Overlap. Cohorts were created based on the therapy received: systemic steroids (SS), diphenhydramine (DH), cyclosporine (CS), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors (TNFαi), or a combination of treatments. Cohorts were then propensity matched with patients who received supportive care. Patients who only received one of the above treatments showed no significant reduction in 90-day mortality. Patients who received CS or IVIG as part of their multitherapy showed a significantly increased risk of death when compared to supportive care (CS: RR = 1.583, 95% CI [1.119, 2.240]; IVIG: RR = 2.132, 95% CI [1.485, 3.059]). Despite their frequent utilization, this study's analysis suggests that none of these therapies confer significant 90-day mortality survival over supportive care alone. These results highlight the heterogeneity of therapies and emphasize the need for critical prospective appraisal of their outcomes in SJS and TEN.

Evaluation of Dry Eye Severity and Ocular Surface Inflammation in Patients with Pemphigus and Pemphigoid

PURPOSE

To evaluate ocular surface involvement, tear cytokine levels, and histopathological changes in pemphigus and pemphigoid patients.

METHODS

A total of 22 patients (15 pemphigus and 7 pemphigoids) and 21 non-diseased controls were enrolled in our study. All participants underwent ocular surface evaluation, which included ocular surface disease index test, slit lamp observation, dry eye-related examination, tear multicytokine analysis, and conjunctival impression cytology.

RESULTS

Pemphigus and pemphigoid patients presented much more severe conjunctivochalasis, corneal epithelial defects, corneal opacity, symblepharon   and dry eye. Severe ocular surface squamous metaplasia and a significant increase of tear macrophage inflammatory protein-1beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL -6, and IL-8 occurred in pemphigus and pemphigoid patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results revealed that ocular surface inflammation and dry eye persist in most pemphigus and pemphigoid patients, and do not occur in parallel with the systemic course. Regular ophthalmological examinations and local anti-inflammatory should be provided for pemphigus and pemphigoid patients.

Ocular surface involvement and histopathologic changes in the acute stage of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare and extremely serious drug-induced dermatological disorders. The ocular surface condition at the early stage has been little studied and should contribute to novel perspectives in early and effective topical therapy of these diseases. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the acute phase of ocular surface involvement and histopathologic changes in patients with acute SJS/TEN.

METHODS

Ten patients with acute phase of SJS/TEN onset and eleven age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers were recruited. Ocular surface symptoms and signs, conjunctival impression cytology, and tear multi-cytokine were assessed.

RESULTS

Ocular surface objective signs were normal at the acute stage of SJS/TEN, while most patients have abnormal ocular surface subjective symptoms and meibomian gland secretion. Conjunctival impression cytology showed a significant decrease in goblet cell density and severe ocular surface squamous metaplasia in acute SJS/TEN patients. Tear multi-cytokine analysis showed all 21 pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines all sharply elevated. Goblet cell density was significantly negatively correlated with tear C-X3-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CX3CL1) and interleukin 13.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe pathologic squamous metaplasia and inflammation onset in the ocular surface at the acute stage of the SJS/TEN, even if the ocular surface condition seemed basically normal with adequate systemic immunosuppressant and general supportive treatment. Early topical anti-inflammatory therapy should be carried out actively.

Long-Term Benefits of Tear Exchangeable Limbal-Rigid Contact Lens Wear Therapy in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Cases

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the long-term benefits of tear-exchangeable, limbal-rigid contact lens (CL) wear therapy in patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)-associated ocular sequelae.

METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated 50 eyes of 41 SJS patients (15 men and 26 women) who underwent limbal-rigid CL wear therapy for more than 2 years post fitting. Ocular sequelae (i.e., conjunctival hyperemia, corneal neovascularization, and upper tarsus scarring) before fitting and at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and annually after initiating CL wear therapy were evaluated and then graded on a severity score (range: 0-3, maximum score: 3). Moreover, visual acuity (VA) at immediately post initiating CL wear therapy was evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 4.3±1.1 years. Compared with before fitting, the mean conjunctival hyperemia score improved from 1.14 to 0.86 at 3 months of CL wear therapy ( P <0.01) and was maintained thereafter; the mean corneal neovascularization score improved from 2.10 to 1.98 at 3 months of CL wear therapy, with no deterioration of the score observed in all cases at the final follow-up examination, and mean VA (log of minimum angle of resolution) improved from 1.60 to 1.04 at immediately post initiating CL wear therapy ( P <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Limbal-rigid CL wear therapy can provide long-term ocular surface stabilization and improved VA in SJS patients.

Single-Staged Surgical Correction of Eyelid Sequelae Along With Lid Margin Mucous Membrane Grafting in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Other Cicatricial Ocular Surface Diseases

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to study the outcome of single-staged entropion surgery along with lid margin mucous membrane grafting for cicatrizing ocular surface disease.

METHODS

Retrospective review of medical records of patients who underwent single-staged surgical correction of cicatricial entropion along with lid margin mucous membrane grafting for lid margin keratinization.

RESULTS

Twenty-six eyes of 19 patients were studied. The mean age of patients was 42.5 years (standard deviation, SD-17.67), of which 7 patients were male and 12 were female. The most common disorder was Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) sequelae (83.33%, n = 20), followed by mucous membrane pemphigoid (n = 4, 16.67%). The most common eyelid changes observed were cicatricial entropion in all 26 eyes (100%, n = 26), followed by trichiasis in 13 eyes (50%, n = 13). Lid margin keratinization was noted in all eyes. Postoperative improvement in corneal surface staining was noted in 70% of the patients (n = 13), no change in 20% of the patients (n = 4), and worsening of corneal surface staining in 10% of the patients (n = 2). Postoperative visual acuity improvement was noted in 50% of the eyes (n = 13), no improvement in 39% of the eyes (n = 10), and vision worsened in 12% of the eyes (n = 3). An entropion recurrence rate of 25% (n = 6) was observed over an average 10-month follow-up, whereas 75% (n = 20) reported no recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-staged correction of eyelid cicatricial entropion with a lid margin mucous membrane graft (MMG) has promising outcomes in ocular surface diseases. It can decrease the need for multiple surgeries and provide symptomatic relief in patients with chronic cicatricial surface changes.

Vulvovaginal and ocular involvement and treatment in female patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: A review

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are serious adverse cutaneous drug reactions, characterized by epidermal detachment and mucous membrane involvement. SJS/TEN is more common in female patients, with unique findings in the ocular and vulvar regions. Early recognition and intervention, as well as long-term follow-up, are crucial to prevent devastating scarring and sequelae. This review examines the vulvar and ocular manifestations of SJS/TEN and describes the current treatment recommendations for female patients, requiring close consultation and collaboration among dermatology, ophthalmology, and gynecology.

Clinical parameters and biological markers associated with acute severe ocular complications in Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions with high mortality rates. Its sequelae, such as blindness, persist even after recovery. Patients with SJS/TEN should be accurately diagnosed and receive appropriate treatment as soon as possible. Therefore, identifying the factors for severity prediction is necessary. We aimed to clarify the clinical parameters and biological markers that can predict acute severe ocular complications (SOCs) in SJS/TEN. This retrospective cross-sectional study enrolled 47 patients with SJS/TEN who were divided into two groups according to ocular severity at acute onset: non-severe ocular complications group (n = 27) and severe ocular complications group (n = 20). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that disease severity (body surface area detachment ≥ 10%) was a predictive factor for acute SOCs, and older age (≥ 60 years) was marginally significantly predictive of SOCs. Serum biomarker levels of S100A8/A9 and granulysin were marginally significant and tended to increase in the SOC group. Therefore, during the early acute stage, focusing on disease severity, patient age, and serum inflammatory biomarkers (S100A8/A9 and granulysin) might help predict SOC progression in patients with SJS/TEN who need prompt and aggressive ocular management to prevent severe ocular sequelae.

Corneal Epithelial Stem Cells-Physiology, Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Options

In the human cornea, regeneration of the epithelium is regulated by the stem cell reservoir of the limbus, which is the marginal region of the cornea representing the anatomical and functional border between the corneal and conjunctival epithelium. In support of this concept, extensive limbal damage, e.g., by chemical or thermal injury, inflammation, or surgery, may induce limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) leading to vascularization and opacification of the cornea and eventually vision loss. These acquired forms of limbal stem cell deficiency may occur uni- or bilaterally, which is important for the choice of treatment. Moreover, a variety of inherited diseases, such as congenital aniridia or dyskeratosis congenita, are characterized by LSCD typically occurring bilaterally. Several techniques of autologous and allogenic stem cell transplantation have been established. The limbus can be restored by transplantation of whole limbal grafts, small limbal biopsies or by ex vivo-expanded limbal cells. In this review, the physiology of the corneal epithelium, the pathophysiology of LSCD, and the therapeutic options will be presented.

USA: Ophthalmologic Evaluation and Management of Acute Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) can cause significant damage to the ocular surface and eyelids. The sloughing and inflammation of the ocular mucosal epithelium during the acute phase may lead to scarring sequelae of the eyelids and ocular surface, resulting in pain and vision loss. Amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) to the eyes and eyelids during the initial 1–2 weeks of the disease can decrease the chronic sequelae. The main development in the ophthalmologic treatment of SJS/TEN in the USA over the last 15 years has been the use of AMT on the ocular surface and eyelids during the acute phase. The evolution of AMT techniques, refinement of the evaluation of the eyes in acute SJS, and the efforts to increase the use of AMT in the USA are discussed.

Physical and Psychological Recovery Following Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Patient Survey

Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are acute, life-threatening diseases that cause sloughing of the skin and mucous membranes. Despite improved survival rates, few studies focus on long-term outcomes. We conducted a single-center review of all patients with SJS/TEN admitted from January 2008-2014. SJS/TEN survivors were invited to participate in the validated Veterans RAND 12 Item Health Survey (VR-12) to assess health related quality of life using a mental health composite score (MCS) and physical health component score (PCS). The sample was compared to US norms using one sample two tailed t-tests. A second questionnaire addressed potential long-term medical complications related to SJS/TEN. Of 81 treated subjects, 24 (30%) long-term survivors responded. Participants identified cutaneous sequelae most frequently (79%), followed by nail problems (70%), oral (62%) and ocular (58%) sequalae. Thirty-eight percent rated their quality of life to be "unchanged" to "much better" since their episode of SJS/TEN. The average PCS score was lower than US population norms (mean: 36 vs. 50, p=0.006), indicating persistent physical sequelae from SJS/TEN. These results suggest that SJS/TEN survivors continue to suffer from long-term complications that impair their quality of life and warrant ongoing follow-up by a multidisciplinary care team.

Drug-related Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Review

Introduction

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare, life-threatening, allergic reactions affecting the skin and mucous membranes. SJS is considered to be a milder form with less than 10% of body surface area (BSA) involvement. We report successful management of two cases of SJS and TEN. Firstly, a case of a 24-year-old female who presented with rashes over face, chest, and upper limbs after the oral intake of ciprofloxacin and local application of moxifloxacin eye drops. She developed high-grade fever and difficulty in breathing requiring intubation and lung-protective mechanical ventilation and was treated with high-dose methylprednisolone, azithromycin, soframycin skin dressings, and topical ocular antibiotics. Secondly, another case of a 16-year-old female who developed bullous eruptions over the trunk, arms, hands, face, and sole involving 60% of BSA, after oral intake of albendazole. She was diagnosed as TEN and successfully managed with sterile silver nitrate, soframycin dressings, and antibiotics.

Key message

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are life-threatening, allergic reactions affecting the skin and mucous membranes. Early identification, withdrawal of the suspected drug, and early transfer to a specialized center decrease mortality.

How to cite this article

Arora R, Pande RK, Panwar S, Gupta V. Drug-related Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Review. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021;25(5):575-579.

Predictive biomarkers for the progression of ocular complications in chronic Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic Eeidermal necrolysis

This study aimed to clarify predictive biomarkers of mild and severe ocular complications of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) by examining the cytokines in tears. In 121 chronic-phase SJS/TEN eyes, cytokines in tear samples collected using Schirmer test strips were measured, and ocular sequelae severity was evaluated using an Ocular Surface Grading Score (OSGS) involving 7 components (conjunctivalization, neovascularization, opacification, keratinization, symblepharon, and upper/lower conjunctival-sac shortening), with findings categorized into grades 0–3 (maximum total OSGS: 21). Changes in cytokines between the mild and severe groups (mild: total OSGS of 10 or less, severe: total OSGS of 11 or more), and changes between SJS/TEN cases with and without each of the 7 components, were compared. In the severe group, there was significant upregulation of interleukin (IL)-8 (P < 0.01) and Granzyme B (GrzB) (P < 0.05). IL-8 was significantly upregulated in eyes with conjunctivalization, neovascularization, or opacification, GrzB was upregulated in eyes with keratinization, interferon-γ-inducible protein 10 (IP-10) was downregulated in eyes with conjunctivalization or neovascularization, and IL-1α was upregulated in eyes with opacification (all: P < 0.05). IL-8 and IP-10 was involved in conjunctivalization and neovascularization, while GrzB was involved in keratinization. IL-8 and GrzB in tears may reflect SJS/TEN-related ocular sequelae severity.

Clinical and pathogenic aspects of the severe cutaneous adverse reaction epidermal necrolysis (EN)

The severe cutaneous adverse reaction epidermal necrolysis (EN) which includes toxic epidermal necrolysis and the milder Stevens-Johnson syndrome is characterized by epidermal loss due to massive keratinocyte apoptosis and/or necroptosis. EN is often caused by a drug mediating a specific TCR-HLA interaction via the (pro)hapten, pharmacological interaction or altered peptide loading mechanism involving a self-peptide presented by keratinocytes. (Memory) CD8 + T cells are activated and exhibit cytotoxicity against keratinocytes via the perforin/granzyme B and granulysin pathway and Fas/FasL interaction. Alternatively drug-induced annexin release by CD14 + monocytes can induce formyl peptide receptor 1 death of keratinocytes by necroptosis. Subsequent keratinocyte death stimulates local inflammation, activating other immune cells producing pro-inflammatory molecules and downregulating regulatory T cells. Widespread epidermal necrolysis and inflammation can induce life-threatening systemic effects, leading to high mortality rates. Research into genetic susceptibility aims to identify risk factors for eventual prevention of EN. Specific HLA class I alleles show the strongest association with EN, but risk variants have also been identified in genes involved in drug metabolism, cellular drug uptake, peptide presentation and function of CD8 + T cells and other immune cells involved in cytotoxic responses. After the acute phase of EN, long-term symptoms can remain or arise mainly affecting the skin and eyes. Mucosal sequelae are characterized by occlusions and strictures due to adherence of denuded surfaces and fibrosis following mucosal inflammation. In addition, systemic pathology can cause acute and chronic hepatic and renal symptoms. EN has a large psychological impact and strongly affects health-related quality of life among EN survivors.

Multidisciplinary care in Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are potentially fatal mucocutaneous diseases that can involve many organ systems. Manifestations of SJS/TEN outside of the skin, eyes, and oral mucosa are not well defined or well recognized, and, therefore, are often not addressed clinically. As supportive care improves and mortality from SJS/TEN decreases, chronic complications in affected organ systems are becoming more prevalent. Recognition of the manifestations of SJS/TEN in the acute phase is critical to optimal care. In this review, we review the organ systems that may be involved in SJS/TEN, provide an overview of their management, and propose a list of items that should be communicated to the patient and family upon discharge. The organ systems discussed include the pulmonary, gastrointestinal/hepatic, oral, otorhinolaryngologic, gynecologic, genitourinary, and renal systems. In addition, the significant psychosocial, nutritional, and pain consequences and management of SJS/TEN are discussed.

Society of Dermatology Hospitalists supportive care guidelines for the management of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis in adults

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are life-threatening conditions with high morbidity and mortality. Supportive care management of SJS/TEN is highly variable. A systematic review of the literature was performed by dermatologists, ophthalmologists, intensivists, and gynecologists with expertise in SJS/TEN to generate statements for supportive care guideline development. Members of the Society of Dermatology Hospitalists with expertise in SJS/TEN were invited to participate in a modified, online Delphi-consensus. Participants were administered 9-point Likert scale questionnaires regarding 135 statements. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method was used to evaluate and select proposed statements for guideline inclusion; statements with median ratings of 6.5 to 9 and a disagreement index of ≤1 were included in the guideline. For the final round, the guidelines were appraised by all of the participants. Included are an evidence-based discussion and recommendations for hospital setting and care team, wound care, ocular care, oral care, urogenital care, pain management, infection surveillance, fluid and electrolyte management, nutrition and stress ulcer prophylaxis, airway management, and anticoagulation in adult patients with SJS/TEN.

Bilateral panophthalmitis following toxic epidermal necrolysis: A case report

A 70 year old man presented with systemic signs of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) following consumption of diclofenac tablets for a prodromal illness a week back. Ophthalmic evaluation showed no perception of light in both eyes along with lid edema, total corneal sloughing, and pus-filled anterior chamber. An amniotic membrane transplant was planned but within a few hours, both eyes developed panophthalmitis with restricted extraocular movements and mild proptosis and had to be eviscerated. This is perhaps the first case showing such devastating sequelae of TEN.

Characteristics of meibomian gland dysfunction in patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome

To evaluate the characteristics of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) in patients with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and investigate the risk factors for severe MGD.Sixteen patients with a history of SJS were evaluated for MGD. To assess the SJS severity acute ocular involvement score (AOS), acute systemic involvement score (ASS), and chronic ocular manifestation score (COMS) were measured. Meibomian gland parameters were evaluated using meibomian gland dropout score (meiboscore - using a Keratograph 5 M), meibum expression score (MES), meibum quality score (MQS), and lid margin abnormality score (LMAS). Correlations between severity of meibomian gland parameters and degree of ocular and systemic involvement of SJS were analyzed. Risk factors for development of severe MGD were identified.The patients' mean age was 32.0 ± 14.3 years. Four patients were men and 12 were women. MGD had developed in 14 patients (87.5%). The meibomian gland parameters were significantly correlated with ocular and systemic degree of SJS as evaluated using AOS (P < .01), ASS (P < .01), and COMS (P < .01). Patients with severe MGD had a higher AOS (P < .01) and COMS (P = .02) values than those without severe MGD. On multivariate analysis, AOS higher than 2 was a significant risk factor for developing severe MGD (P = .03).MGD was a common ocular manifestation with SJS patients. Severity of meibomian gland parameters was correlated with AOS, ASS, and COMS, and the presence of acute ocular complications was a risk factor for severe MGD in patients with SJS.

Ocular and Mucocutaneous Sequelae among Survivors of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis in Togo

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess ocular and mucocutaneous sequelae among SJS/TEN survivors and identify risk factors of ocular sequelae.

Patients and Method

Late complications among SJS/TEN survivors were assessed using 2 methods: a retrospective assessment of medical records only or a retrospective assessment of medical records and physical examination of survivors who were contacted by phone.

Results

Between January 1995 and December 2017, 177 cases of SJS/TEN (138 cases of SJS, 29 cases of TEN, and 10 cases SJS/TEN overlap) were admitted into two university hospitals of Lomé (Togo). There were 113 women and 64 men, with an average age of 31.7±13.0 years (range: 5 to 80 years). The most used drugs were antibacterial sulfonamides (35.6%) and nevirapine (24.3%). HIV serology was positive in 68 (59.1%) of the 115 patients tested. Sixty-four (52,5%) of the 122 patients, who had been examined by an ophthalmologist during the acute stage, had acute ocular involvement, which was mild in 27.9% of patients, moderate in 13.1%, and severe in 11.5%. We recorded 17 deaths (i.e., three cases of SJS, 12 of TEN, and two of SJS/TEN overlap), including 11 cases of HIV infected patients. Of the 160 SJS/TEN survivors, only 71 patients were assessed 6 months after hospital discharge. Among them, forty-three (60.6%) patients had sequelae. Concerning mucocutaneous sequelae, the main lesions were diffuse dyschromic macules (38.0% of patients) and ocular sequelae were dominated by decreased visual acuity (14.1% of patients). In multivariate analysis, exposure to sulfadoxine (odds adjusted ratio = 5.95; 95%CI= [1.36-31.35]) and moderate (adjusted odds ratio = 5.85; 95%CI = [1.23-31.81]) or severe (adjusted odds ratio = 48.30; 95%CI = [6.25-1063.66]) ocular involvement at acute stage were associated with ocular sequelae.

Conclusion

Ocular and mucocutaneous sequelae are common in SJS/TEN survivors. Exposure to sulfadoxine and severity of acute ocular involvement are risk factors of ocular sequelae.

Clinical features, outcomes and treatment in children with drug induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be considered a late-onset allergic reaction, can cause serious long-term sequelae. SJS/TEN are considered a spectrum of life-threatening adverse drug reactions. They have the same clinical manifestations and the only difference is in the extent of epidermal detachment. These conditions are associated with high mortality, although incidence of SJS/TEN is rare in children. SJS/TEN is an adverse drug reaction influenced by genes that involve pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and immune response. Infective agents are additional influencing factors. Anticonvulsants and antibiotics, and especially sulphonamides and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are among the drugs that were predominantly suspected of triggering SJS/TEN. No evidence-based standardized treatment guidelines for SJS or TEN are currently available. The usual treatment is mainly founded on the withdrawal of the suspected causative agent and supportive therapy. In pediatric patients, the specific therapeutic strategies are controversial and comprise systemic corticosteroids and the use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). More recently, new therapeutic approaches have been used, such as immunosuppressive therapies, including cyclosporine and TNF-α inhibitors.

A Case of Corneal Neovascularization Misdiagnosed as Total Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency

PURPOSE

To report a case of corneal neovascularization misdiagnosed as total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD).

METHODS

This is a case report of a 61-year-old woman who has a history of bilateral idiopathic scleritis, keratitis, and uveitis for more than 20 years. She was diagnosed with total LSCD in her left eye based on clinical presentation alone and was confirmed as a candidate for limbal transplantation at several major tertiary eye care centers in the United States. After referral to the Stein Eye Institute, in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) were performed to clarify the diagnosis.

RESULTS

Slit-lamp examination of the left eye revealed 360-degree severe thinning at the limbus and peripheral corneal pannus and neovascularization that spared the central cornea, a smooth epithelium without fluorescein staining at the central cornea, an uneven surface, and pooling of fluorescein at the peripheral cornea accompanied by minimal fluorescein staining of the sectoral peripheral epithelium. IVCM showed that epithelial cells in the central cornea exhibited a corneal phenotype and that the morphology of the epithelium in all limbal regions except the nasal limbus was normal. Epithelial cellular density and thickness were within the normal range. AS-OCT showed severe thinning in the limbus and a normal epithelial layer in the cornea and limbus. Based on the findings of IVCM and AS-OCT, we concluded that the patient had minimal LSCD, and limbal stem cell transplantation was not recommended.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical presentation alone is insufficient to correctly diagnose LSCD in complex cases. Additional diagnostic tests, such as IVCM, are necessary to confirm the diagnosis before any surgical intervention.

Severe eye complications from toxic epidermal necrolysis following initiation of Nevirapine based HAART regimen in a child with HIV infection: a case from Cameroon

Background

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare life threatening dermatological disorder characterized by extensive epidermal detachment and erosion of mucous membranes. It is typically a side effect of some medications. Nevirapine, a nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) is one of the frequently used components of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Skin rash is its common adverse reaction, usually mild and rarely progressing to TEN. Ophthalmic involvement is common as well but rarely progresses to blindness especially in the pediatric population.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 3 year 5 month old child diagnosed with HIV who developed TEN 8 days after starting a Nevirapine based HAART regimen. Drug withdrawal and supportive treatment alone were the modalities employed to achieve complete re-epithelization of lesions. Patient was lost to follow-up 6 months after being in care and was only seen 3 years later with total loss of vision.

Conclusion

Blindness, though rare, can be a long-term complication of TEN in children especially with HIV infection. Physicians and patient caregivers should closely monitor these patients, especially during their early stages of treatment amongst others for development of adverse drug reactions. Long-term retention in care is pivotal for identification and prompt management of ocular and other chronic complications, albeit recognizing management challenges in low resourced settings.

[Factors associated with the severity of acute ocular involvement in Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis in sub-Saharan Africa]

AIM

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors associated with the severity of acute ocular involvement in Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) in sub-Saharan Africa.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

A retrospective study was carried out at the dermatology department in collaboration with the ophthalmology department for SJS/TEN patients between January 2000 and December 2016 in Lomé (Togo). The severity of acute ocular involvement was evaluated using the Power classification, and the drug eruption score was assessed using de Bastuji-Garin classification.

RESULTS

A total of 107 cases of SJS/TEN (84 cases of SJS, 20 cases of TEN and 3 cases of overlap syndrome) were analyzed. There were 71 women and 36 men, with an average age of 32.3±12.5 years (range: 5 to 75 years). Sulfonamides (37.4%) were the most commonly used drugs followed by nevirapine (22.4%). HIV serology was positive in 46 (58.2%) of the 79 patients tested. A total of 54 (50.5%) patients had acute ocular involvement, which was mild in 29.9% of patients, moderate in 13.1% and severe in 7.5%. In multivariate analysis, exposure to sulfadoxine was the sole factor associated with moderate or severe acute ocular involvement in SJS/TEN (adjusted odds ratio=3.3; 95% CI=[1.1; 10.2]).

CONCLUSION

Exposure to sulfadoxine was identified in our study as a risk factor associated with the severity of acute ocular involvement in SJS/TEN. Multicenter studies should be conducted in sub-Saharan Africa to confirm this associated risk factor.

The diagnosis of limbal stem cell deficiency

Limbal stem cells (LSCs) maintain the normal homeostasis and wound healing of corneal epithelium. Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a pathologic condition that results from the dysfunction and/or an insufficient quantity of LSCs. The diagnosis of LSCD has been made mainly based on medical history and clinical signs, which often are not specific to LSCD. Methods to stage the severity of LSCD have been lacking. With the application of newly developed ocular imaging modalities and molecular methods as diagnostic tools, standardized quantitative criteria for the staging of LSCD can be established. Because of these recent advancements, effective patient-specific therapy for different stages of LSCD may be feasible.

SJS/TEN 2017: Building Multidisciplinary Networks to Drive Science and Translation

Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) is a life-threatening, immunologically mediated, and usually drug-induced disease with a high burden to individuals, their families, and society with an annual incidence of 1 to 5 per 1,000,000. To effect significant reduction in short- and long-term morbidity and mortality, and advance clinical care and research, coordination of multiple medical, surgical, behavioral, and basic scientific disciplines is required. On March 2, 2017, an investigator-driven meeting was held immediately before the American Academy of Dermatology Annual meeting for the central purpose of assembling, for the first time in the United States, clinicians and scientists from multiple disciplines involved in SJS/TEN clinical care and basic science research. As a product of this meeting, this article summarizes the current state of knowledge and expert opinion related to SJS/TEN covering a broad spectrum of topics including epidemiology and pharmacogenomic networks; clinical management and complications; special populations such as pediatrics, the elderly, and pregnant women; regulatory issues and the electronic health record; new agents that cause SJS/TEN; pharmacogenomics and immunopathogenesis; and the patient perspective. Goals include the maintenance of a durable and productive multidisciplinary network that will significantly further scientific progress and translation into prevention, early diagnosis, and management of SJS/TEN.

Russian Keratoprosthesis in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Moscow Eye Microsurgery Complex in Russia (MICOF) keratoprosthesis (KPro) implantation in patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS).

METHODS

This was a retrospective case series. Fourteen eyes of 13 patients with SJS underwent KPro implantation at the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital between April 1, 2000, and December 24, 2014. The visual outcome, KPro retention rate, and incidence of postoperative complications and their management were recorded and investigated.

RESULTS

The mean age and follow-up duration were 61.5 ± 17.3 years (range: 27-87 yrs) and 62 ± 39.1 months (range: 13-144 mo). Thirteen eyes (92.9%) achieved a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/200 or better, and 8 eyes (57.1%) achieved a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better after surgery. However, 71.4% (10/14) experienced visual decline because of different postoperative complications. Common complications included corneal melting, glaucoma, vitritis, superficial tissue overgrowth, and retroprosthetic membrane, and the incidence of these complications was 71.4%, 28.6%, 35.7%, 14.3%, and 28.6%, respectively. After repair and autoauricular cartilage reinforcement, all cases had stable anatomical retention at the last visit.

CONCLUSIONS

The MICOF KPro improved vision of patients with SJS, but lifelong surveillance is necessitated because of a high rate of postoperative complications. Corneal melting was the main reason for KPro failure. Infectious endophthalmitis and glaucoma were the main risk factors for visual loss.

TFOS DEWS II pathophysiology report

The TFOS DEWS II Pathophysiology Subcommittee reviewed the mechanisms involved in the initiation and perpetuation of dry eye disease. Its central mechanism is evaporative water loss leading to hyperosmolar tissue damage. Research in human disease and in animal models has shown that this, either directly or by inducing inflammation, causes a loss of both epithelial and goblet cells. The consequent decrease in surface wettability leads to early tear film breakup and amplifies hyperosmolarity via a Vicious Circle. Pain in dry eye is caused by tear hyperosmolarity, loss of lubrication, inflammatory mediators and neurosensory factors, while visual symptoms arise from tear and ocular surface irregularity. Increased friction targets damage to the lids and ocular surface, resulting in characteristic punctate epithelial keratitis, superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis, filamentary keratitis, lid parallel conjunctival folds, and lid wiper epitheliopathy. Hybrid dry eye disease, with features of both aqueous deficiency and increased evaporation, is common and efforts should be made to determine the relative contribution of each form to the total picture. To this end, practical methods are needed to measure tear evaporation in the clinic, and similarly, methods are needed to measure osmolarity at the tissue level across the ocular surface, to better determine the severity of dry eye. Areas for future research include the role of genetic mechanisms in non-Sjögren syndrome dry eye, the targeting of the terminal duct in meibomian gland disease and the influence of gaze dynamics and the closed eye state on tear stability and ocular surface inflammation.

A cross-sectional comparative study on chronic ocular manifestations of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis in Chinese eyes: a 15-year case series

PURPOSE

To compare the chronic ocular manifestations in Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis patients from a 15-year cohort.

METHODS

All SJS and TEN patients admitted to our burn intensive care unit between 1999 and 2014 were invited for assessment. Slit-lamp examination was performed, and ocular condition was graded according to the Sotozono scoring System, which depended on the extent of cornea, conjunctiva and lid involvement. Tear osmolarity was also measured.

RESULTS

A total of 18 SJS and 4 TEN cases with an average of 92 and 135 months from disease onset were included. The average age of onset was 46.4 ± 16.6 in SJS and 43.5 ± 19.3 in TEN patients. The LogMAR visual acuity was 0.209 ± 0.591 in SJS and 0.489 ± 0.688 in TEN patients (p = 0.048). The average total Sotozono score was 3.75 ± 7.32 in SJS and 6.88 ± 9.49 in TEN (p = 0.358). Neither the age of onset (p = 0.787), length of follow-up (p = 0.256) nor disease type (SJS vs TEN, p = 0.188) predicted the Sotozono score. There was a statistically significant correlation between Sotozono score and LogMAR VA (r _s = 0.437, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

The average total Sotozono score was higher in the TEN group than in the SJS group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Nevertheless, the score correlated with the visual acuity which was statistically worse in the TEN group.

Comparison of the acute ocular manifestations of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis in Chinese eyes: a 15-year retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare but life-threatening conditions that initially affect the skin and mucous membranes. The aim of this study was to compare the acute ocular manifestations between SJS and TEN.

METHODS

The initial presenting ophthalmic records of patients with either SJS (<30% body surface area involvement) or TEN (> = 30% involvement), who were treated at one tertiary burn center in Hong Kong between 1999 and 2014, were retrospectively analyzed and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 20 SJS and 12 TEN cases were included. All were drug-induced. The patient demographics and treatment received were comparable. Overall, 40% of SJS and 75% of TEN patients had acute ocular surface inflammation. When comparing the two groups, there was a significant difference in the number of cases with mild involvement (5% in SJS, 42% in TEN, p = 0.01), while no statistically significant differences were found (p > 0.05) comparing between the moderate (15% in SJS, 0% in TEN) and severe groups (20% in SJS, 33% in TEN).

CONCLUSIONS

Ocular surface inflammation was common during the acute phase in both SJS and TEN. TEN had a significantly higher number of cases with mild ocular involvement when compared with SJS, but no significant difference between the number of moderate and severe cases between the two groups.

Factors Contributing to Long-Term Severe Visual Impairment in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Purpose. To study the correlation between demographics and clinical variables and long-term severe visual impairment in patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Methods. A retrospective chart review of SJS/TEN patients between 2004 and 2014 was conducted. Demographics, causative agents, ocular manifestations, and visual outcomes were collected. The data were analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model. Results. Of the 89 patients including SJS (65, 73.03%), TEN (15, 16.85%), and SJS-TEN overlap (9, 10.11%), 55 were female. The mean age was 41.58 ± 19.17 years. The most common identified agents were medications. Among these groups, antibiotics were the most prevalent (47.19%). Three patients (3.7%) had unknown etiology. Antibiotics and nonpharmaceutical triggers were significantly associated with long-term severe visual impairment (odds ratio 4.32; P = 0.015 and 7.20; P = 0.037, resp.). There was a significant negative relationship between HIV infection and long-term severe visual impairment (P = 0.021). Among all chronic ocular complications, only corneal neovascularization significantly correlated with severe visual impairment (P = 0.001). Conclusions. SJS/TEN patients caused by nonpharmaceutical triggers or antibiotics have an increased risk of developing long-term severe visual impairment from corneal neovascularization. HIV infection might be a protective factor against long-term poor visual outcomes.

Effects of Autologous Serum Eye Drops on Conjunctival Expression of MUC5AC in Patients With Ocular Surface Disorders

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of autologous serum eye drops on conjunctival expression of the mucin gene MUC5AC by means of quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

METHODS

A prospective and comparative interventional case series study of 38 eyes of 19 patients with different ocular surface disorders was performed before and 6 weeks after the treatment with autologous serum eye drops. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmic assessment, including evaluation of the tear film, ocular surface exploration, conjunctival impression cytology (IC), and MUC5AC detection by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

A total of 34 eyes were studied by IC and MUC5AC quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction before and after treatment with autologous serum. This treatment improved breakup time, conjunctival squamous metaplasia, goblet cell density, and subjective perception in 76.2%, 70.6%, 55.9% and 73.5% of eyes, respectively. Treatment with autologous serum enhanced conjunctival expression of MUC5AC (P = 0.001), although these differences were not statistically significant if data are analyzed patient by patient (P = 0.09). In 13 of 34 eyes (38.2%), we found increased expression of MUC5AC; in 12 eyes (35.3%), no significant changes were found; and in 9 eyes (26.5%), a decreased expression was found. The MUC5AC gene upregulation was related to the conjunctival involvement before treatment and with the improvement in the degree of squamous metaplasia and the increase in the number of goblet cells in IC after treatment (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with autologous serum enhances the conjunctival expression of MUC5AC by increasing the density of goblet cells, mainly in patients with severe conjunctival involvement.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Corneal Ectasia: Management and a Case for Association

PURPOSE

To report the occurrence of corneal ectasia (ECT) in patients with history of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), and to make the case for an association between these 2 diagnoses. We also report the impact of prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem (PROSE) treatment on visual acuity (VA) in these patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

A manufacturing database of PROSE patients from 2002 to 2014 at Boston Foundation for Sight (BFS), a single-center clinical practice, was reviewed to identify patients with diagnoses of both SJS and ECT.

RESULTS

Nine patients were identified with diagnoses of both SJS and ECT. In each case, review of the medical record revealed that diagnosis of SJS preceded that of ECT. The prevalence of ECT in this population exceeded that in the general population (P < .0001). Videokeratography was available for 13 eyes in 7 patients; using Krumeich's classification of keratoconus, 3 eyes were found to be at stage 1, 3 at stage 2, 1 at stage 3, and 6 at stage 4. Sixteen of 18 eyes underwent PROSE treatment. Of these 16 eyes, initial median VA was 20/200 (range, count fingers to 20/20; logMAR 1.0). Median VA after PROSE customization was 20/30 (range, 20/60-20/15; logMAR 0.1761, P < .0025).

CONCLUSIONS

ECT occurs at a higher-than-expected rate in patients with a history of SJS. PROSE treatment improves VA in these patients. The basis of the association between SJS and ECT is considered, as well as the role of plausible contributory factors such as corneal microtrauma and matrix metalloproteinases.

Acute and Chronic Ophthalmic Involvement in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis - A Comprehensive Review and Guide to Therapy. II. Ophthalmic Disease

Our purpose is to comprehensively review the state of the art with regard to Stevens- Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), with particular attention to improving the management of associated ocular surface complications. SJS and TEN are two ends of a spectrum of immune-mediated disease, characterized in the acute phase by a febrile illness followed by skin and mucous membrane necrosis and detachment. Part I of this review focused on the systemic aspects of SJS/TEN and was published in the January 2016 issue of this journal. The purpose of Part II is to summarize the ocular manifestations and their management through all phases of SJS/TEN, from acute to chronic. We hope this effort will assist ophthalmologists in their management of SJS/TEN, so that patients with this complex and debilitating disease receive the best possible care and experience the most optimal outcomes in their vision and quality of life.

Clinical characteristics and treatment outcome of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are erythematous skin lesions with blister formation accompanied by mucosal involvement. These conditions are considered to be life-threatening illnesses. Understanding the clinical presentation, risk factors, treatment options and results will be advantageous for physicians in the management of patients in the future. The aim of the present study was to review and analyze the clinical manifestations, drug implications, treatment and outcome of patients with SJS and/or TEN who had been hospitalized in a tertiary care center. All hospitalized patients with SJS and/or TEN during a 5-year period were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical severity was graded according to the score of toxic epidermal necrolysis (SCORTEN) scale. Clinical symptoms, diagnosis, possible precipitating factors, management and outcome data were collected for analysis. A total of 43 patients (mean age, 49.5 years) were hospitalized and classified into the SJS group (55.8%), SJS/TEN overlap group (20.9%) and TEN group (23.3%). The majority of the patients (90.7%) had mucocutaneous eruptions associated with oral drug administration. Allopurinol, anticonvulsants and antibiotics were the most common causative agents for the mucocutaneous eruption. Twenty-eight patients (65.1%) were treated with corticosteroids. The mortality rate was 6.9%. Comparison between the survival group and the non-survival group revealed that patient age >70 years (P=0.014) and body surface area involvement >20% (P<0.01) were the significant factors associated with mortality. The use of systemic steroids was higher in the survival group in comparison with the non-survival group (65.1 vs. 0%, respectively; P=0.014). The mucocutaneous eruptions in SJS and TEN are mostly caused by medication. With early recognition and treatment, the mortality rate in this study was lower than that in previous reports. Patient age and the area of mucocutaneous involvement were significant factors associated with mortality.

Amniotic Membrane Transplantation in Acute Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: Histopathologic Changes and Ocular Surface Features after 1-Year follow-up

Purpose

To evaluate ocular features and histopathologic changes in patients with toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) treated with amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) in the acute phase.

Methods

A prospective study of 5 eyes (3 patients) with severe ocular involvement and 4 eyes (2 patients) with moderate involvement treated with AMT in the acute phase of TEN was performed. Patients underwent a complete ophthalmic assessment before the intervention and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postoperatively. Tear film break-up time (BUT), Schirmer test, fluorescein_staining, corneal and conjunctival epithelial squamous metaplasia, ocular sequelae, and conjunctival retraction were measured.

Results

In patients with severe involvement, 2 eyes (40%) showed mild symblepharon and peripheral corneal neovascularization, and corneal epithelial defects, lid margin malposition, and trichiasis was found in 20% of the eyes; only 1 eye (20%) required surgery for structural defects. We did not find ocular sequelae after 1-year follow-up in the patients with moderate involvement. Only 1 eye (25%) developed mild symblepharon that did not require specific treatment. Amniotic membrane transplantation significantly improved the squamous metaplasia in corneal and conjunctival nonsecretory epithelial cells, and significantly improved the goblet cells density after 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Amniotic membrane transplantation performed for acute TEN reduced inflammation and ocular surface scarring, improved dry eye and squamous metaplasia. and decreased ocular sequelae in the chronic stage. Although further and prospective studies are needed, AMT may be the optimal treatment for acute TEN with severe or moderate ocular involvement.

Prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem as treatment for ocular surface disease in patients with a history of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis

PURPOSE

To report the visual outcomes of prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem (PROSE) treatment in patients with ocular surface disease related to Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SUBJECTS

We included 86 patients (167 eyes) with history of SJS/TEN who underwent PROSE treatment from January 1, 2006, to January 1, 2011.

METHODS

Etiology, previous interventions, change in visual acuity, change in visual function, and duration of follow-up are reported. Paired t test and Friedman test with Dunn's post hoc test for multiple comparisons were used for statistical analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Visual acuity at last follow-up and visual function based on the National Eye Institute 25-item Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25) at 6 months.

RESULTS

We treated 35 males and 51 females with a history of SJS/TENS; median age was 36 years. The most common reported etiologies for SJS/TENS were antibiotics (n = 25), ibuprofen (n = 15), and lamotrigine (n = 11). The median visual acuity at the initial visit was 20/60 (range, 20/400-20/25; 0.48 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR]), and the visual acuity at completion of customization was 20/25 (range, 20/200-20/20; 0.096 logMAR; P < 0.001), with no decline in median acuity at the end of follow-up. Median duration of follow-up was 16 months. There was a significant improvement in the visual function of the patients based on the NEI VFQ-25 questionnaire (mean of 48 points at baseline vs. mean of 72 points at 6 months; P < 0.001). In addition, there was also an improvement in the self-reported general health of the patients (mean of 57 points at baseline vs. mean of 65 points at 6 months; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large cohort of patients with chronic ocular surface disease related to SJS/TEN, PROSE treatment offers sustained and significant large improvement in visual function and acuity.

Severity of acute ocular involvement is independently associated with time to resolution of ocular disease in toxic epidermal necrolysis patients

PURPOSE

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a severe, life-threatening mucocutaneous disorder that frequently involves the ocular surface. This study aims to investigate the natural history and resolution of acute ocular involvement in patients with TEN admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

METHODS

Case notes of patients admitted to ICU with TEN at a tertiary referral centre in a 9-year period were retrospectively reviewed. Patients' characteristics, severity of ocular involvement, SCORTEN systemic severity score and treatment were correlated with resolution of ocular involvement and time to resolution.

RESULTS

Nine out of 10 (90%) patients had ocular involvement with 4 graded as mild, 2 as moderate and 3 as severe. All had bilateral ocular disease. The median length of hospital stay was 28 days and the median time to resolution of ocular involvement was 19 days. Four out of 9 (44%) patients still had active ocular disease at the time of discharge. Only older age (p=0.032) and a milder grade of ocular disease (p=0.001) were significantly associated with resolution of ocular disease. In a multivariable Cox-regression model, only a milder grade of ocular disease remained independently associated with time to resolution of ocular disease (p=0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Grading of acute ocular disease severity does not reflect systemic disease severity and is significantly associated with resolution and time to resolution of ocular involvement in TEN. The high rate of ocular involvement in patients with TEN and relatively large proportion of patients with active disease on discharge reiterates the need for constant ophthalmological monitoring of these patients.