Egypt: Saving the Life of a Man from the Rare Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

A medical team at Mansoura International Hospital in Egypt managed to save the life of a sixty-year-old man after he was diagnosed with the rare and dangerous Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which causes skin erosion and impairs breathing.

The symptoms of the disease began to appear on the patient after he took two doses of an antibiotic called "Ceftriaxone," where he developed severe skin and facial inflammation, along with extreme difficulty in breathing and a sharp drop in oxygen levels.

After a thorough examination, it was confirmed that the condition was Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which requires urgent medical intervention.

The medical team began implementing a strict treatment protocol that included administering intravenous immunoglobulin for five days, with close monitoring of the patient's skin, mucous membranes, and vital signs.

Thanks to the rapid intervention, the man's condition gradually improved, with stabilized oxygen levels and reduced skin inflammation, and his breathing returned to normal.

Regarding the disease, Dr. Dalia Moussa Ahmed, head of the dermatology department at Horus Specialized Hospital, explained that Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare condition that leads to severe disruption of the skin and mucous membranes due to an allergic reaction to certain medications.

The symptoms begin with a rash that progresses to the shedding of the upper layer of the skin, and treatment requires several weeks with continuous care for the wounds to prevent complications.

Dr. Dalia advised against taking any medications or antibiotics except under strict medical supervision to avoid the risks of contracting this rare and dangerous syndrome that can threaten life.