Despite its long history as a treatment for epilepsy, Dilantin still creates an increased risk of developing severe skin conditions such as Stevens Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Since the 1950s, Dilantin has been used to treat and prevent seizures associated with epilepsy and recovery from neurosurgery. It’s also known by its generic name phenytoin. Unfortunately, Dilantin is one of many different drugs with a known relationship with Stevens Johnson Syndrome.
Stevens Johnson Syndrome and its related condition toxic epidermal necrolysis are both serious skin conditions with symptoms that resemble severe burns. Both conditions begin with fever, headaches, body aches, or cough. These initial symptoms may at first suggest a case of the flu, and misdiagnosis.
Within a few days, areas of red rash begin to appear and spread irregularly over the body. Blisters begin to form in the center of the rash.
The main difference between SJS and TEN is the amount of surface area of the body affected. Where less than 30 percent of surface area is affected, the condition is referred to as SJS. If it advances to cover 30 percent or more, it’s called TEN. There is some overlap between the two conditions.
Also in TEN, the blisters and areas of rash also coalesce into large areas of skin that peel off. The patient is at risk for losing large amounts of fluid and electrolytes from these areas of lost skin. The loss of skin also exposes the patient to substantial risk of organ failure or infection, which is the most common cause of death in SJS and TEN patients.
Symptoms of both conditions can also affect the mucous membranes. Damage to the mouth and throat can make chewing and swallowing painful. Eye symptoms are also common and may include corneal damage and purulence so severe it causes the eyes to seal shut. Membranes of the genitourinary system may also be affected, resulting in painful urination or diarrhea.
Although both conditions are rare, the majority of SJS and TEN cases are caused by drugs like Dilantin. In one study of 73 patients taking antiepileptic drugs, 14 were reported to have SJS associated with phenytoin treatment. Another study found phenytoin-induced SJS occurred at a rate of over 13 percent among 127 hospital patients.
Patients of Asian ancestry may particularly be at risk for developing Dilantin SJS. The FDA-approved labeling for Dilantin notes that another anticonvulsant drug, carbamazepine, has a strong association with an increased risk of SJS in Asian patients. Scientists believe that increased risk may be related to a genetic trait known as the HLA-B*1502 allele, which is sometimes present in Asian patients. Dilantin could pose a similar risk for Asian patients.
The harm caused by Dilantin SJS or TEN can be substantial. Treatment can require weeks, or sometimes months, of hospitalization, preventing the patient from earning income while at the same time racking up ponderous medical bills. SJS can also leave permanent, disfiguring scarring. And in addition to the financial and physical effects, the emotional toll can also be severe and long-lasting.
Do YOU have a legal claim? Fill out the form on this page now for a free, immediate, and confidential case evaluation. The SJS attorneys who work with Top Class Actions will contact you if you qualify to let you know if an individual lawsuit or Dilantin class action lawsuit is best for you. [In general, Dilantin lawsuits are filed individually by each plaintiff and are not class actions.] Hurry — statutes of limitations may apply.
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Help for Victims of Stevens Johnson Syndrome
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) after taking a prescribed or over-the-counter medication, you may be eligible to take legal action against the drug’s manufacturer. Filing an SJS lawsuit or class action lawsuit may help you obtain compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. Obtain a free and confidential review of your case by filling out the form below.
An attorney will contact you if you qualify to discuss the details of your potential case at no charge to you.
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