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In Canada, we often take pride in our universal healthcare system. When a medical catastrophe like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) strikes, the immediate hospital costs, such as the ICU stay, the specialized burn unit care, and the life-saving interventions, are largely covered. However, for survivors, discharge from hospital does not signal the end of the condition or financial burden. In fact, for many, it is just the beginning. While the

I was diagnosed in April of 2021 with SJS. I had started taking lamotrigine. I was on it for three weeks when I started to feel bad. It started with a high fever of 104. I went to the ER on April 16th, 2021, and all they did was test me for Covid. It was negative and they sent me home. The next day I did a televisit and that doctor put me on an antibiotic with sulfa in it. Two days later I went back to the ER feeling worse and getting a rash. Same thing tested me for Covid an

When we talk about Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), the immediate focus is often on the severe and visible impact on the skin. However, SJS/TEN is a mucocutaneous condition, meaning it attacks the mucous membranes just as aggressively. For up to 80% of patients, the eyes are directly on the front lines of this immune response. Because SJS/TEN is incredibly rare, bringing awareness to the different clinical topics within the disease is ess

Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are rare, life-threatening reactions, most often triggered by medications. Despite their severity, early SJS/TEN is frequently misdiagnosed, delaying withdrawal of the offending drug and appropriate care. For a condition where hours and days matter, misrecognition can significantly worsen outcomes. As we recognize Rare Disease Month, it is important to examine why SJS/TEN is so often missed, what it is common

Recovery from Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) does not end when the skin stops blistering. For many survivors, the weeks and months after hospitalization are defined by rebuilding strength, healing wounds, and restoring physical function. Two pillars of this recovery, nutrition and physical rehabilitation, are often under-discussed, yet they are central to healing. This post explores what research and clinical guidance tell us about how f

Every October, Canadian Patient Safety Week reminds us of the importance of preventing harm before it happens. For rare but serious conditions like Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), prevention means reducing risk for everyone: by improving drug safety, recognizing early signs, and responding quickly when reactions occur. While we cannot always predict who will develop them, greater awareness can help reduce the risk. Understanding the Risk